Program Summary

The Rhythm Road: American Music Abroad is a partnership between Jazz at Lincoln Center (JALC) and the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. The program is designed to foster cultural exchange with audiences worldwide through performance and educational outreach. Selected ensembles tour to such regions as Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East for approximately one month. International activities include public concerts, master classes, lectures, demonstrations, workshops, jam sessions, media outreach, and collaborations with local musicians.

The Rhythm Road: American Music Abroad tours operate under the official auspices of the U.S. government. The U.S. Department of State funds international travel, hotels, & meals, and awards a modest tour honorarium to each musician. JALC organizes the tours and coordinates the auditions, which are judged by professional musicians. Selected quartets will also perform two free public concerts, at JALC’s Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola and in Washington DC. All events nationally and internationally may be recorded and broadcasted non-commercially.