As a jazz pianist, composer, arranger and all around musician, Jan Jarczyk had a profound impact on students and colleagues at McGill University’s Schulich School of Music. He was at the heart and soul of the jazz program for almost three decades: even those who weren’t lucky enough to study with Jan are well acquainted with stories that speak of his formidable musical skills, powerful mind and humorous spirit.
To honor Jan’s devotion to his students and his love of music, the Jan Jarczyk Fund has been established at McGill to provide financial support to outstanding jazz piano students at Schulich. The Fund will be celebrated with a concert at McGill University on March 24. The program will feature a selection of arrangements for two pianos/six hands, performed by prof. Jean-Michel Pilc and two exceptional students from McGill’s jazz program: Daniel Arthur & David Osei-Afrifa. The evening will start with a glass of wine and will end with a reception.
According to Jan Jarczyk’s widow:
For Jan, nothing was more important than music. Music was also his family. He believed it could teach us everything: it was a way to become ourselves and learn how to live. I sincerely hope that you will feel as proud as I am and that you will be moved to find a way to encourage this initiative which will allow Jan’s work to live on, although he is no longer with us.
Jan has left great gifts for both the current and future generations to enjoy. His music will continue to exist through the wealth of his recorded material and in live performances of his compositions. His teachings will keep guiding all those that he touched. Above all else, Jan will serve as inspiration to artists around the world in their pursuit of what he loved most: music.
Tickets are available at venue page or the Facebook page, or if you would like to contribute to the fund, visit mcgill.ca/seedsofchange. Please spread the word through social media and email!
Friday, March 24, 2017 | 5:30 wine reception, 6:30 pm concert
Rush Hour Jazz: Two pianos/Six Hands honoring Jan Jarczyk
Tanna Hall, Schulich School of Music, McGill University
527 Sherbrooke St. West, Montreal, QC, Canada
Info: www.mcgill.ca or www.facebook.com
Tickets ($12/18): schulich.ticketmob.com, 514-398-4547
[Sources: press release, .mcgill.ca, mcgill.ca]