Fundraiser for Nashville Women in Jazz

Join Us in Fundraising for Nashville Women in Jazz!

Nashville Women in Jazz is a grassroots organization existing to empower women and other underrepresented demographics in Nashville’s jazz scene. By booking and promoting performances, providing educational gatherings, and hosting networking events, we seek to connect musicians and amplify our influence in Nashville.

Countless musicians, who made invaluable contributions to jazz creation, have remained unsung with their voices lost in the chorus of history. Female and non-binary band leaders and lead music arrangers are rare sights, and the legacy of these musician contributions remain overshadowed. Nashville Women in Jazz was formed in 2017 to challenge this reality and is currently under the direction of community organizer and musician, Alayna Renae.

Since the beginning of 2024, Nashville Women in Jazz has provided over 100 paid gigs to musicians in our community. Our database has grown to include 76 female and non-binary musicians. We have partnered with prestigious organizations such as Tennessee Performing Arts Center, SoHo House Nashville, Bankers Alley Hotel, Urban Cowboy and many more! We organized our first community-led, grant-funded jazz jam which ran for 6 months!

Our mission extends beyond promoting gender diversity; we are equally dedicated to returning jazz to its roots and acknowledging its history in Nashville. Jazz, also known as Black American Music, is not just a musical genre; it is a cultural treasure deeply intertwined with the history, heritage, and soul of the Black community. Throughout history, jazz has undergone a transformation, often being co-opted by white musicians and audiences. While this expansion introduced the world to the wonders of jazz, it also distanced the genre from its roots. Nashville Women in Jazz recognizes this historical imbalance and believes that the revitalization of jazz starts with inclusivity and equity. Together, we aim to recapture the essence of jazz by respecting its origin and recognizing that its future is intrinsically linked to its past.

Our Story: A Crescendo of Empowerment

Founded by a group of visionary female musicians, Nashville Women in Jazz began as grassroots meet-ups. These gatherings became a sanctuary where stories were shared, and resources exchanged. Support grew stronger and larger, evolving into a series of events that has continued to unite and uplift our community.

By providing an accessible platform for discovering and hiring talented women and LGBTQ+ musicians of all backgrounds, we're actively rewriting the narrative of who can take center stage. One of our most significant achievements is the creation of this dynamic and evolving musician database. This is a digital orchestra, now composed of 76 talented women and LGBTQ+ musicians. The purpose is to break down barriers and make it easy for those seeking to hire musicians to access a diverse and inclusive range of talent. We envision it as a one-stop shop for those who are committed to promoting diversity within their musical projects.

Today, our journey is a harmonious song of empowerment, echoing through the heart of Nashville's vibrant music scene. What began as a small group of musicians meeting has evolved into a resounding force for change in the world of jazz.

Thursday Nights at Urban Cowboy: A Showcase of Talent

One of our proudest achievements is the establishment of a residency at the iconic Urban Cowboy, where we've created an enchanting space for musical expression and empowerment. Every Thursday night, this residency features a rotating cast of women or non-binary led musicians chosen from our extensive database.

Why We Exist: Centering Women and Non-Binary People

Our organization is a vital response to the pressing need for representation and opportunity in the jazz community. We stand as a beacon of inclusivity, providing a platform for marginalized voices to shine. Our database is a groundbreaking resource, a gateway for musicians and allies alike to discover and hire talented individuals who've long been sidelined. We exist to cultivate a more just and equitable jazz scene in Nashville - one where diversity isn't just celebrated, but actively promoted.

The Femme Fatales: A Celebration of Empowerment

To mark the launch of our transformative fundraiser, we proudly present "The Femme Fatales" - an event that pays homage to the strength, beauty, and complexity of femininity. This event transcends stereotypes and redefine narratives, inviting attendees to embrace the femme empowerment within, no matter how you might identify.

Your Support Matters: Fundraiser Goals

The funds we raise will support the ongoing efforts of Nashville Women in Jazz. Your contributions will be directed towards crucial business startup costs and the creation of enriching programs for our community. Additionally, a portion will go directly to supporting the artists and musicians performing at our annual fundraiser event "The Femme Fatales.”

Join us in this harmonious journey of empowerment. Together, we can rewrite the script of jazz history, elevating marginalized voices, and creating a more vibrant, equitable community. Your support is not just a donation; it's a catalyst for change. Together, we'll compose a brighter future for Nashville's jazz scene.

Thank you for supporting Nashville Women in Jazz!