Youth Jazz Festival to Honor Vibraphonist Lionel Hampton

Plans for a youth jazz festival in honor of legendary vibraphonist Lionel Hampton were announced this week.

The First Annual Lionel Hampton Los Angeles Unified School District Jazz Festival is scheduled for April 19 at the Luckman Fine Arts Complex at Cal State Los Angeles.

Hampton, as well as Big Band performer Illinois Jacquet, are among the musicians who will perform.

Lloyd Rucker, a photographer of jazz musicians, organized the festival to promote jazz education.

“Music education has many benefits, including freedom of expression, imagination and communication, and creates the evolution of the next generation of jazz performers who might otherwise never develop,” Rucker said.

More than 300 students representing at least 15 schools are expected to participate in the festival, Rucker said. They will take part in contests and clinics held by professional jazz artists.

Last June, Rucker arranged a concert at Washington Preparatory High School where Hampton performed songs, including his signature tune, “Flying Home,” with high school jazz bands.