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NEA Jazz Masters Headline Upcoming James Moody Benefit

Kenny Baron, Paquito D’ Rivera, and Jimmy Heath headline the upcoming 7th Annual James Moody Jazz Scholarship of New Jersey benefit.

The James Moody Scholarship of New Jersey was born in paying tribute to the jazz great.  The scholarship is given to a college bound high school senior based on their grades, musical talent, and willingness to contribute to their community.  Linda Moody says without the help of friends and musicians; the scholarship wouldn’t be possible.  Jazz House Kids Founder Melissa Walker is one of them.

“Linda Moody and of course the late great James Moody wanted this to go into the hands of someone where it can make a significant contribution to their efforts and their desire to go on to higher education,” Walker said.  “I think it imbues what was important to James Moody, and that was that you’re serious about all of your endeavors.  This year the award has increased to $5,000, showing Linda Moody’s commitment that it will grow to allow students to have meaningful support.”

Bassist John Lee is a friend of the family and regular entertainer at the benefits.

“He’d be in heaven,” Lee said about James Moody.  “This is exactly what he wanted, and why he established this in the first place.  He was very committed to young musicians and helping them achieve their goals in jazz.”

The James Moody Scholarship of New Jersey benefit takes over the Blue Note in New York City on March 27.