Howard University
Jazz Ensemble

Powered by the Jazz Academy of Music (JAM), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization

Keep HUJE’s Legacy Thriving

The Howard University Jazz Ensemble (HUJE) is one of the nation’s premier collegiate jazz programs, carrying forward a legacy of excellence, innovation, and Black musical brilliance. Our students represent the next generation of jazz artists, educators, and cultural leaders—and they deserve the tools and support to rise to their fullest potential.

Unfortunately, university budgets do not always meet the essential needs of the ensemble. That’s where you come in.

To ensure HUJE has the resources it needs today, the Jazz Academy of Music has established the Howard University Jazz Ensemble Support Fund, a dedicated and fully restricted fund that allows alumni, families, and friends to give directly to the band.

Because the fund is housed within JAM, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, your contribution is fully tax-deductible and is used exclusively for the benefit of the Howard University Jazz Ensemble.

Why Your Support Matters?

Every semester, the Ensemble needs:

  • Uniform jackets, shirts, and ties/scarves with the Howard identity
  • Professional music folders
  • New music arrangements and licensed charts
  • Guest clinicians and masterclasses
  • Recording support
  • Festival and performance travel
  • Instrument repair assistance
  • Student supplies grants (reeds, valve oil, sticks, mutes, etc.)

These are not luxuries—they are the foundation of a professional-quality ensemble.

When you give to the HUJE Support Fund, your full donation goes directly to these needs and never enters the university’s general budget.

How the Support Fund Works?

The Jazz Academy of Music serves as the fiscal sponsor and manages the fund with full transparency.

  • Receives your tax-deductible contribution
  • Restricts it solely for HUJE
  • Purchases materials and services directly for the band
  • Provides periodic updates on the impact of your gift

This structure ensures your generosity directly supports HUJE—not administrative overhead or unrelated university priorities.

Ways to Give

Your gift ensures that the Howard University Jazz Ensemble continues its tradition of excellence and prepares the next generation of jazz leaders.

Become a HUJE Booster Circle Member

Supporters can join at any level:

  • Contributor – less than $50
  • Friend – $50
  • Bronze Booster – $150
  • Silver Booster – $500
  • Gold Booster – $1,000
  • Director’s Circle – $5,000 or more

Members receive recognition, behind-the-scenes content, and special invitations.

Adopt-a-Musician

A gift of $150 outfits a student with their official HUJE performance shirt and jacket.

A gift of $250 covers a student’s music materials and supplies for the semester.

Sponsor a Chart

$150–$350 funds a new arrangement or big band chart.
Your name (or that of a loved one) will appear in the performance program as the chart sponsor.

Support Guest Artists & Masterclasses

$500–$2,000 brings top-tier jazz musicians to work with HUJE students—an experience that lasts a lifetime.

About the Jazz Academy of Music

The Jazz Academy of Music is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to developing young jazz artists, supporting music education, and strengthening the jazz ecosystem. For over two decades, JAM has served as a trusted partner to students, schools, and community organizations throughout the region.

Tax ID (EIN): 51-0431430

All donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.

Contact

For questions or to discuss major gifts or sponsorship opportunities:

Karmen W. Carr

Vice-President, Jazz Academy of Music

Email: kcarr@jazzacademy.org | Phone: 301 - 871 - 8418

Paul Carr

Director, Howard University Jazz Ensemble

Email: pcarr@howard.edu | Phone: 240 - 351 - 5329