Mission

A cooperative of jazz clubs united by a passion for presenting exceptional artistry while building awareness, appreciation, and educational opportunities for America’s original art form. Through collaboration, we align efficient tour routes that bring artists from around the world to both the Midwest’s major cities as well as sometimes overlooked markets. A better touring experience for the artist opens time for engagement with community and educational outreach at regional universities. Making music by working together.

Midwest Jazz Collective programming is determined annually and plans to feature four artists per year, presented on a quarterly basis. Artists are nominated and selected through an annual voting process led by MJC member clubs and presenters. Each year’s programming strives to be thoughtfully curated so as to present a diverse lineup that balances established and emerging artists while reflecting the breadth of jazz — its styles, histories, and evolving genres — highlighting tradition and innovation across the art form.

Programming

Route

The cornerstone on which opportunity is built: Midwest Jazz Collective members’ commitment to optimized routing makes it all possible. Thoughtful scheduling (eleven o’clock lobby calls and a short drive to the next destination) gives artists time to engage meaningfully with local communities and pursue educational outreach with regional universities. These opportunities would not otherwise exist without cooperation. MJC currently serves 16 Midwest markets, with an average drive time of just two hours between destinations.

Education

The Midwest is home to world-class jazz studies programs, and the Midwest Jazz Collective is committed to nurturing the next generation of artists and advocates. Optimized tour routing gives visiting artists the time and flexibility to engage in masterclasses and educational outreach with regional universities. Beyond facilitating these opportunities, MJC is working to establish a free student ticket lottery—removing barriers and ensuring young musicians can fully engage with and be inspired by today’s leading artists.