Exploring the Intersection of Jewish Identity and American Jazz

Long Beach residents have a unique opportunity to delve into the rich tapestry of Jewish contributions to American jazz.

 

On Thursday, November 20th, at 7 pm, the Alpert Jewish Community Center (3801 E. Willow St.) will host a compelling lecture titled "Jews and Jazz: Improvising Ethnicity in America."

 

This event is proudly sponsored by the CSULB Jewish Studies Program.

 

Esteemed scholar Charles Hersch, Professor of Political Science at Cleveland State University, will lead the discussion.

 

Hersch is renowned for his insightful works, including "Democratic Artworks: Politics and the Arts from Trilling to Dylan" (1997), "Subversive Sounds: Race and the Birth of Jazz in New Orleans" (2007), and "Jews and Jazz: Improvising Ethnicity" (2017).

 

His extensive research offers a profound understanding of the interplay between culture and music.

 

The lecture will explore how Jewish musicians have both influenced and been influenced by American jazz throughout different eras.

 

From the 1920s and 1930s, when artists like Benny Goodman and Artie Shaw used jazz to assert their American identity, to the 1940s and 1950s, where figures such as Stan Getz and Michael Brecker expressed solidarity with African American communities, and into the 1960s to the present, as musicians rediscover their Jewish heritage within a multicultural landscape.

 

This narrative underscores jazz as a dynamic platform for identity, belonging, and creativity.

 

In the vibrant cultural scene of Long Beach, this event adds a significant dimension.

 

With the city preparing to host several events for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, including beach volleyball and water polo, Long Beach is embracing its diverse cultural heritage.

 

Mayor Rex Richardson has emphasized the city's readiness and historical significance, highlighting its rich sports and cultural legacy.

 

Attendees are encouraged to RSVP to facilitate smooth admission through security.

 

Like all Jewish Studies talks, this event is free and open to the public.

 

Don't miss this opportunity to explore the profound connections between Jewish culture and America's greatest musical art form.