BHCLA launches year of programming with evening of culture at Baltimore’s Eubie Blake National Jazz Institute and Cultural Center

By Ericka Alston Buck 
Special to the AFRO 

The Billie Holiday Center for Liberation Arts (BHCLA) at Johns Hopkins University set the stage for an extraordinary year of programming with a vibrant celebration of Black culture at the Eubie Blake National Jazz Institute and Cultural Center on Jan. 12. 

The event, hosted at the heart of Baltimore’s cultural scene, brought together artists and audiences from diverse backgrounds to champion cultural and educational programming in the visual and performing arts.

BHCLA, an initiative dedicated to building bridges between Johns Hopkins University and Baltimore’s historic African American communities, kicked off its year with an evening that celebrated the strengths and potential of both entities. The Eubie Blake National Jazz Center served as the perfect backdrop for an event that aimed to foster organic links and create a space for cultural enrichment.

The evening’s main attractions were BHCLA Artist-in-Residence Jamal Moore and former WEAA radio host/deejay, “Doc” Manning. 

Moore, a native of Baltimore, is a multi-talented artist with a rich background in music and education. His performance and participation in the roundtable discussion added a layer of depth to the evening. Manning, an iconic figure in Baltimore’s music scene, brought his 30 years of experience as a radio host to the table, creating a dynamic duo that resonated with the diverse audience.

Panel discussion: Exploring Jazz appreciation

The festivities commenced with a panel discussion moderated by Dr. Lawrence Jackson, the director of Johns Hopkins University’s Billie Holiday Center for Liberation Arts. The panelists, Moore and “Doc” Manning, shared personal stories and insights into their appreciation of jazz as young individuals. Moore highlighted the influence of his parents and the rich cultural and spiritual environment he grew up in, providing a glimpse at the roots of his musical journey.

As Moore shared stories of growing up in a pan-African politically conscious household, the audience gained a deeper understanding of his journey. From being told in grade school that his hands were too small to play the saxophone to wowing the crowd with his musical prowess during the performance that followed the roundtable, Moore’s story embodied resilience and determination.

When asked what he wanted attendees to walk away with from having attended the event Moore said “I would love for everyone to walk away with an enlightened mind and to be musically and spiritually, healed.” 

Attendees were encouraged to stay engaged with BHCLA, with upcoming events scheduled for April 18th at the Baltimore Museum of Art and Sept. 7th, featuring the return of the Lafayette Square Jazz Concert. These events promise to continue the celebration of cultural diversity, artistic expression and community engagement.

The evening began with a catered reception and the chance for attendees to explore the “Birth of Baltimore Jazz” archival exhibit. By the end of the night, audience members were basking in the sounds delivered by Moore. 

As BHCLA embarks on a new year of programming, this kickoff event set the tone for an enriching journey that celebrates the vibrancy of Black culture, fosters organic connections, and highlights the amazing potential within Johns Hopkins University and Baltimore’s historic African-American communities. The BHCLA invites everyone to join them in the upcoming events, ensuring a year filled with cultural exploration and artistic expression.