The Trombone Shorty Foundation has partnered with Tulane University’s New Orleans Center for the Gulf South to establish a music business education program for New Orleans high school students that will cover a wide range of material, including recording, production, marketing, and event organizing.
The Fredman Music Business Institute at the Trombone Shorty Academy will offer its first classes in January 2014, said Bill Taylor, Executive Director of the Trombone Shorty Foundation. The institute was funded by long-time Tulane supporters Andrew and Kerin Fredman who viewed a webcast of a Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue performance from Red Rocks Amphitheater in Colorado this summer. The Fredmans were so impressed that discussions ensued on how they might support the Trombone Shorty Academy at Tulane. “We’ve been excited about Tulane’s efforts to support the local community and its culture,” said Andrew Fredman, a 1984 alum of Tulane. “Providing students with strong mentorship and business acumen ensures a pathway to success. It’s our hope that they will pursue their dreams and then follow in Troy’s footsteps by giving back.”
The Trombone Shorty Foundation is not only teaching kids music, but now is gearing up to teach how to function in music business.
“I am so grateful to the Fredman family and Tulane University for supporting our efforts to help up-and-coming New Orleans musicians, not just as performers but as smart business minds as well,” said Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews, who launched his foundation in January with its flagship program, The Trombone Shorty Academy, also hosted at Tulane University. “Growing up as a musician, at times I had to learn business lessons the hard way, “Andrews says. “So the Fredman Music Business Institute will make it easier on the next generation.”
Interviews/auditions to select the participants in the first Fredman Institute class begin in mid-December. About 15 to 20 young students from high schools throughout New Orleans will be selected, and any student can apply. The institute will provide students with hands-on experience with the information and tools necessary to become successful in the music industry. Each student selected for the program will be given an iPad loaded with materials they will learn throughout the semester. The final class project will allow students toparticipate in all aspects of the production for the second annual “Shorty Fest,” a benefit concert for the Trombone Shorty Foundation that takes place during the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.
All high school students interested in participating should email The Trombone Shorty Foundation at: [email protected].
