The Tom Elliott Jazz Ensemble proposes a regional touring project that brings cinematic, contemporary jazz, blues, and narrative-driven performances to communities across the Midwest. The tour will combine free, live concerts with community engagement activities — including workshops, open rehearsals, and jazz storytelling sessions — designed to expand access to jazz and strengthen cultural connection.
We are launching our 2026 Community Engagement Tour, a series of free and low‑cost, live performances, youth workshops, and neighborhood arts community engagement sessions across Chicago and several other midwestern communities like Milwaukee, Detroit, Indianapolis, and Cleveland. The initiative is designed to strengthen community connection, support youth music development, and expand access to the arts—goals that closely align with our sponsors' commitment to community engagement and meaningful local impact. Also, one of our most important goals is to make a documentary film of the tour, to expand our exposure to younger audiences in other communities via streaming services.