David Schroeder, a renowned jazz historian and educator, has launched an Indiegogo campaign to fund the preservation of oral histories from jazz musicians. The project, From the Minds of Jazz Musicians, aims to archive the personal stories, creative processes, and cultural contributions of artists who have shaped the genre.
Schroeder’s work includes decades of interviews with jazz legends through series like the NYU Jazz Interview Series and the Artists’ House Jazz Masterclass Series. These conversations offer a unique glimpse into the lives of jazz pioneers, capturing their reflections on their art and its broader cultural impact. To date, over 65 interviews have been compiled into two volumes of his book, From the Minds of Jazz Musicians, which documents the struggles and triumphs of the artists.
The campaign, titled “Preserve the Legacy: Archive Jazz Musicians’ Voices,” seeks to raise funds to expand and maintain this archive. Donations will support the continued documentation of these important narratives, ensuring they are available to inspire future generations. Contributions to the campaign are tax-deductible, with donors receiving exclusive perks for their support.
Schroeder’s initiative highlights the urgency of preserving these voices as the jazz community ages. The effort aims to safeguard not only the music but also the rich cultural history and personal journeys that define the genre. Through this archive, Schroeder hopes to foster greater understanding and appreciation of jazz, while encouraging creativity and innovation in music.
For more information about the project or to contribute to the campaign, visit the Indiegogo page for Preserve the Legacy: Archive Jazz Musicians’ Voices.
