Disney and Pixar’s Soul-Themed Jazz Exhibit at The National Jazz Museum in Harlem is Open Now!
Disney’s regional jazz exhibit, “The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure,” opened at The National Jazz Museum in Harlem on Feb. 10, coinciding with Black History Month. Visitors are joined by Joe Gardner – the musician, mentor and teacher from Disney and Pixar’s “Soul” – on a tour as they discover the rich and surprising history of jazz.
Didn’t you love Soul? I am so excited to have had this opportunity to learn more about the history of Jazz, I hope the movie has opened up more people to this beautiful genre of music!
Introduced at The American Adventure inside EPCOT at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, FL, Disney is thrilled to partner with The National Jazz Museum to bring this experience to Harlem – a city well-known for its vibrant Jazz scene, which fueled the careers of many future Jazz icons. Acting as a tribute to a musical artform that was originated by African Americans, the exhibit illustrates the many different cultures and creators who influenced this evolving genre. Walt Disney Imagineering, the creative force behind Disney experiences, partnered with The National Jazz Museum to bring this story to life.
“Like the film that inspired this exhibit, ‘The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure’ is a tribute to the human experience,” said Carmen Smith, Senior Vice President, Creative Development – Product/Content & Inclusive Strategies. “It was here in Harlem that Jazz not only evolved as an international sensation, but a vehicle for social change. The genre’s enduring influence is a palpable example of the barriers that can be broken when ambition and artistry meet passion and purpose. We’re proud to partner with the National Jazz Museum to preserve and celebrate that special kind of magic.”
While in Harlem, the exhibit will include a unique collection of artifacts curated by The National Jazz Museum, including a player piano, a working 78rpm Victrola, and Duke Ellington’s white grand piano. Additionally, there will be maquettes of characters Joe Gardner and Dorothea Williams, and virtual experiences via the Play Disney Parks app.
Getting the opportunity to see all of this actual Jazz history was amazing! Can you see the fun I was having!
“If Jazz was born in New Orleans, it spent a lot of time growing up in the Harlem community, and that energy is palpable, even today” says National Jazz Museum in Harlem Executive Director Tracy Hyter-Suffern. “Our commitment to exploring the Roots & Routes of Jazz emphasizes the ways Black music continues to shape society and global culture. Harlem is one of the world’s cultural destination points. Our partnership with Disney is a unique opportunity to celebrate Jazz, community and Harlem.”
“The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure” at The National Jazz Museum, located at 58 West 129th St in New York, New York opened Thursday, February 10, 2022. The museum is open Thursday through Saturday from 12 p.m. through 5 p.m., and masks are required. Proof of vaccination is required for visitors over 12 years old. The National Jazz Museum is currently operating on an advanced reservation system. Please visit www.jmih.org to learn more about the museum and to plan your trip.
Standing next to Duke Ellington’s actual piano was a thrill!
Previously housed in New Orleans and Kansas City, the exhibit will be in Harlem until August 31. To learn more about the exhibit, visit www.disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog.
Stay tuned to see where this exhibit will travel to next!
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