Jazz Outreach Initiative is keeping Las Vegas’ rich jazz tradition alive while cultivating the musicians of tomorrow. From free youth education and professional jam sessions to an exciting calendar of concerts and festivals, JOI is preparing for a busy season—and its approaching 10th anniversary. Discover how the organization connects music with life while reaching nearly 10,000 local young people each year.
This podcast chronicles the multifaceted career of John Parenti, tracing his journey from a child drummer in New Jersey to a prolific music producer and composer. His professional ascent began after a chance meeting in Las Vegas led to a successful partnership with Benny Hester, eventually resulting in a major recording contract and the creation of the record-breaking Christian hit "When God Ran."
The Canyon, also known as the Canyon Club in Agoura Hills, California, was transformed into a celebration of funk, soul and musical history on Saturday, April 4, 2026, as Larry Dunn, a Grammy-winning original member of Earth, Wind & Fire, brought his "Anthology of Earth, Wind & Fire" to a sold-out and electrified crowd.
John Parenti's story begins in New Jersey, where a childhood encounter with music set the course for his life. At 4 years old, he walked in on his older brother's band and something ignited within him. "I saw the drummer in particular, and I knew I was going to do music for the rest of my life," Parenti remembers. Encouraged by his family, he received his first snare drum and later a drum set. The young boy practiced diligently and immersed himself in learning music.
After retiring as the founding music director and conductor laureate of the Las Vegas Philharmonic in 2007, Hal Weller didn't exactly lay down his baton. Two years later, he launched FAYM — the Foundation to Assist Young Musicians — as an organization to offer scholarships and mentoring to young, rising-star musicians pursuing their careers.
David Benoit's creative spirit burst forth as he composed "The Three-Finger Waltz" at age 6 and, at 11, wrote a composition for bassoon and harpsichord. Music seemed to flow through Benoit's veins because his father, Robert Bryan Benoit, played jazz guitar and exposed his son to jazz music.
With the release of his 11th studio album, "Heart of the Eternal," Adrian James "A.J." Croce compiles a delicious recipe of eclectic songs that highlight his aptitude for fusing rock, blues, gospel and soul. In addition to exploring diverse musical roadways, Croce delves deep into psychological and spiritual themes with curiosity, humor and homegrown wisdom earned along life's painful paths.
Hal Savar single-handedly carved out an astounding musical journey for himself as a talented artist. Growing up in Philadelphia and numerous locales across the country as an Air Force brat, music became his sanctuary—an outlet for self-expression and connection.
Las Vegas is not commonly known for celebrating its historical heritage, so marking 50 years with the Las Vegas Jazz Society (the Society) is especially noteworthy. The Society has been a fundamental part of the city's cultural community, committed to promoting an appreciation for jazz music through concerts, education and community outreach.
The Desert Roots Rising Stars Festival—featuring a weeklong musical extravaganza—returns after its spectacular summer debut last year. Concerts boast a dazzling repertoire of beloved classical masterpieces, contemporary favorites and even a colorful splash of pop-rock composers.
