The Wayne State University Department of Music invites the community to several events celebrating J.C. Heard JazzWeek@Wayne, July 22 to 26.

The department embarked on a long-term partnership with the Detroit Jazz Festival in 2007, resulting in the creation of JazzWeek, a weeklong workshop providing up to 40 high school students with an intensive and rewarding tuition-free jazz education.

Last year, the initiative adopted its new name, J.C. Heard JazzWeek@Wayne, in honor of the generous support from the J.C. Heard family. Heard's legacy as a jazz drummer extraordinaire has been woven into the program's curriculum and presentation.

Guided by WSU's jazz faculty, guest artists from the Detroit community and national artists sponsored by the Detroit Jazz Festival, participants study improvisation, theory and ensemble playing. They work in master class settings, jam sessions, and small and large ensemble rehearsals.

On Wednesday, July 24, Wayne State jazz faculty will perform with Grammy award-winning musician and producer Peter Erskine at Cliff Bells as part of the festivities.

J.C. Heard JazzWeek@Wayne culminates with two public performances at Campus Martius Park. For a schedule of performances, visit WSU's calendar of events.

Photo: Russ Miller, associate professor of jazz studies, instructs and mentors students during the weeklong JazzWeek@Wayne workshop.