Levine Music Renamed Its Jazz Program for Ella Fitzgerald
The Ella Fitzgerald Charitable Foundation provided a leadership gift to support the school’s expanded jazz education initiatives.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Jazz
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Levine Music has officially renamed its jazz program as the Ella Fitzgerald Jazz Program. This change follows a multi-year leadership gift provided by the Ella Fitzgerald Charitable Foundation.
Why it matters
The donation supports the expansion of jazz performance and education opportunities at the school. It comes as the institution celebrates its 50th anniversary, marking a new chapter for its musical curriculum.
The jazz program includes private lessons, ensembles, and community jams for its 50th anniversary. The school celebrated this milestone during its 50th Birthday Bash held from 2 to 5 PM on September 27, 2026.
The players
Levine Music
A prominent community music school serving the National Capital Region.
Ella Fitzgerald Charitable Foundation
An organization dedicated to supporting musical education and the legacy of the legendary jazz singer.
Kelton Norris
The Ella Fitzgerald Chair of Jazz and Contemporary Studies who has led the jazz band since 2025.
The details
The newly named Ella Fitzgerald Jazz Program includes a scholarship-supported ensemble for advanced young musicians. The program encompasses a wide range of offerings, including private lessons, formal classes, and public jazz and blues jams.
Timeline
Kelton Norris began leading the Levine Jazz Band in 2025.
The 50th Birthday Bash for Levine Music took place on September 27, 2026.
Industry Dynamics
This renaming aligns with the institution's ongoing efforts to elevate its jazz curriculum during the Levine Music 50th anniversary. It positions the school within a competitive landscape of regional arts education by securing high-profile philanthropic support.
Students in the Washington area can now apply for the new scholarship-supported ensemble for advanced jazz musicians. Local residents may also participate in the expanded community jazz and blues jams offered through the program.
The takeaway
Naming a program after a legendary figure helps signal an institution's commitment to specific musical traditions. Aspiring musicians should look for scholarship opportunities when programs announce new funding sources.
Further reading
For more on local performance opportunities and music education, visit the Washington Jazz section.
More information
To learn about upcoming classes or program enrollment, visit the Levine Music official website.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Broadway World.
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