Via-DisneyParksBlog
Swinging its way from city to city, “The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure” takes visitors on a musical tour across America, showcasing the colorful and surprising history of Jazz. First introduced as an exhibit in EPCOT, Imagineers brought a Disney Parks experience to New Orleans, Kansas City, and now New York City.
These three cities are all home to their own distinct style of Jazz and influence on the genre. With each exhibit localized to the destination, they feature a unique experience curated with artifacts distinctive to the histories of their respective cities.
Opening today, in celebration of Black History Month, we are excited to bring The Soul of Jazz to the National Jazz Museum in Harlem through Aug. 31.
Not only is New York City home to Joe Gardner – musician, mentor and star of Disney and Pixar’s “Soul” – its vibrant Jazz scene holds a distinct chapter as home to the Harlem Renaissance.
The genre propelled to international acclaim here with the help of musicians like Duke Ellington, whose white grand piano will be on display for the duration of this third installment.
Let’s see where else The Soul of Jazz has gone on tour!
Starting off in New Orleans, it was only fitting to begin this musical journey in the undisputed birthplace of Jazz. Now embedded into the culture, Louis Armstrong and Sidney Bechet helped put Jazz on the map here. Located in the heart of the French Quarter, the New Orleans Jazz Museum curated a collection consisting of Baby Dodd’s slide whistle, Dizzy Gillespie’s trumpet, and more.
Characterized by its own unique style, Kansas City is often referred to as a cradle of Jazz. Finding itself at the intersection of an increasingly mobile America, some of the most prolific musicians passed through this city, including one James “Count” Basie.
Running through Jazz Appreciation Month until April 24, the American Jazz Museum serves as the second host with an incredible collection including Samuel “Baby” Lovett’s bongos and a signed photo of Louis Armstrong and his dog.
Our friends at EPCOT are also excited to share that the exhibit is now a part of “Celebrate Soulfully.” Here, guests can find updates to “The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure” located at the American Adventure pavilion! Continuing to build on Jazz’s dynamic narrative, the exhibit now expands the impact Kansas City and Harlem impressed on the genre.
Join us on the blog and social @DisneyParks as we celebrate Black History Month, highlighting stories from our Black cast members and sharing how we bring to life experiences that reflect the rich diversity of our cast and guests.
