David Garfield joined John Bommarito on The Song Break.

Ron Brooks is a jazz musician, a band leader and a mentor. He founded the legendary Bird of Paradise Jazz club, that, for more than 20 years, brought the greatest jazz musicians to Ann Arbor. Ron will receive Creative Washtenaw’s 2024 Lifetime Achievement medal at THE pARTy! on September 30. He joins Deb Polich to talk about his career and legacy on this edition of "creative:impact."

Being entrusted with storied band programs seems to be Jason Fettig’s forte. After leading “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band, Jason arrived in Ann Arbor this year to become the eighth director of U of M’s band program. Meet Jason when he joins Deb Polich to talk about the pomp, circumstance and tradition of bands.

Watch performances from the Detroit Jazz Festival!

Michael Jewett and DJF President and Artistic Director Chris Collins discuss this year's festival.

John Bommarito's interview with Judith Owen.

An interview with April Varner on The Song Break.

A proposed artist and music venue in Ypsilanti is closer to reality thanks to a brownfield grant from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

While completing his doctoral studies at Eastern Michigan University, Dr. Rod Wallace had a vision to give back to his community through music. From there, he partnered with Ypsilanti-based Grove Studios and Ann Arbor-based Leon Speakers to create The Amplify Project, which is now in its fourth season. Dr. Wallace joins Rylee Barnsdale to talk about the work they are doing to lift the voices of African American musicians in Washtenaw County.

Detroit Jazz Festival - 2024 Full Lineup and Schedule Announced

Musician and educator, John E. Lawrence had a dream for a summer jazz festival in Ypsilanti. In 2021, he took the leap, and wow, did they come! Now, thousands flock to Ford Lake on Friday nights to hear the sounds and sway to the music of jazz artists from Southeast Michigan and beyond. Johnny tells us about his Summer Jazz Festival phenomenon when he joins Deb Polich on this edition of WEMU’s "creative:impact."

Olivia Van Goor joins John Bommarito on The Song Break.