We are thrilled to announce our inaugural Jazz Echoes RCJBF Gala of Giving, on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at House Three Thirty in Akron. Jazz Echoes 2024 promises to be an unforgettable night filled with entertainment, delicious food, and dancing. It is an excellent opportunity for you or your organization to align with a meaningful cause while enjoying a memorable experience.

Open Tone Music, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, has been a stalwart advocate for bringing music to students and families in Northeast Ohio. Under the visionary leadership of our Founder and Executive Director, Chris Anderson, we have been dedicated to providing premier music education and performance opportunities for all, with a special emphasis on underserved communities that have historically been denied the benefits of the arts.

Our program, the Rubber City Jazz & Blues Festival, stands as a testament to our commitment to Music Education and Youth Investment, Akron’s Forgotten Jazz and Blues Heritage, and Platforming Local Artists. This initiative has blossomed over the years, offering high-quality music instruction, exploration, performance, and mentorship opportunities to youth aged 6 – 18 across Northeast Ohio. We have expanded our reach to six Akron Area YMCA sites, Akron Public Schools, and introduced group and individual music lessons to students in the Kenmore neighborhood.

Akron, with its profound cultural heritage rooted in Black musical traditions, holds a jazz and blues history often overshadowed by larger cities. The Rubber City Jazz & Blues Festival seeks to revive this forgotten legacy, celebrating Akron’s role as a jazz and blues hub from the 1930s to the 1960s. Founded in 2016 by jazz pianist Theron Brown with seed funding from The Knight Foundation, the festival has evolved into a cultural phenomenon, reaching more than 4,000 people and integrating various art forms while remaining deeply rooted in the city’s musical traditions.

By supporting Jazz Echoes 2024, you will not only contribute to the festival but also play a pivotal role in the betterment of our community. Your sponsorship will directly help us continue our mission while contributing to the cultural vibrancy and enrichment of our community. We would be honored to discuss the various sponsorship opportunities available and explore how your partnership can make a significant impact.