These concerts aim to increase awareness and appreciation of jazz throughout the region and attract new audiences for jazz in divergent communities. During the 2008-2009 season, audiences in St. Charles, the City of St. Louis and Maplewood were treated concerts featuring Kim Massie, the music of Miles Davis, the music of Louis Armstrong and a collaboration between Jazz St. Louis and the Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra to celebrate Charlie Parker.
More than 1,400 jazz enthusiasts have enjoyed the Whitaker Community Concerts.
The Whitaker Community Concerts are generously supported by the Whitaker Foundation.
“A free jazz concert is not very common. It’s nice to come to a great facility where jazz is free. Jazz St. Louis is doing a great service to the community.” – patron Philip DeBoard after attending a Whitaker Community Concert at the Missouri History Museum.