Those who say it can’t be done are usually interrupted by others doing it.” – James Baldwin
Who We Are
Our Mission
Jazz Education
The Wilmington Youth Jazz Band is a non-profit organization whose mission is to expose, educate, and culturally enrich students through learning jazz & music in an effort to maintain and expand jazz throughout our communities. This effort reaches youth from economically and culturally diverse backgrounds.
Our vision
The vision of WYJB is to bring together an economically and socially diverse group of students from across the community – regardless of experience – for jazz instruction and performance. Thus, preserving Jazz music through education and cultural enrichment in the community.
Who we are
Our History
The Wilmington Youth Jazz band was founded in 2004 by Fostina Dixon-Kilgoe with the support of a grant from the Berklee College of Music, our organization strives to expose, educate, and culturally enrich students through learning jazz music; and to help maintain the future and longevity of jazz, the only true American art form.
Our organization provides opportunities for young people of all diversities ethically, financially, and educationally. As a non-profit organization, we maintain our financial responsibilities through fundraising projects and in-kind supporters. The WYJB enhances the latent talents of young participants and provides them with a greater understanding of jazz music. We also offer a window of hope for many young people who would not otherwise be able to afford professional musical instruction.
Our Team
Board of Directors
Marika White
President
Vernon James
Music Director
Ericka Reed
Vice President
Board Member
Brian Coady