Legacy Training to Celebrate Black Music Month With JazzMatazz Community Concern

Legacy Training Incorporated will host its third annual “On One A-Chord” Community Concert and Conversation on Thursday, June 25, at the Marion Cultural and Civic Center.

This year’s Black Music Month celebration, titled “JazzMatazz,” will highlight the history and influence of jazz music through performances and educational presentations.

Featured guest Daryl Davis is a musician, author, and speaker known for his work building dialogue across racial divides. Davis’s experiences confronting racism and engaging with members of the Ku Klux Klan are documented in his book Klan-Destine Relationships and the documentary Accidental Courtesy.

The program will also feature Dr. John Cooper, professor emeritus at Western Illinois University, presenting “Louis Armstrong and the Hot Fives and Hot Sevens.” Local performers Mel Goot and the Young Lions, featuring Ammiel Russell, are also scheduled to appear.

Organizers say the free event is open to all ages. Attendees are encouraged to bring a new children’s book for donation to local Head Start programs.

The concert begins at 6 p.m. at the Marion Cultural and Civic Center. More information is available by calling 618-922-2439.