About

Herein lies a site to support the artistic vision of Elaine Paul Alt.

We hope you enjoy the ride.

About Jazz

Among the many well-known ways to seem foolish, near the top of the list is the attempt to define Jazz.

Yet, we must articulate what we think of Jazz, since Jazz is central to who we are.

Jazz is part of our identity. Jazz informs us. Jazz is an expression of character. Jazz is the spirit that motivates us.

Jazz is the artistic language through which we speak, and our most powerful means of expression.

We are dedicated to honoring, preserving, and extending the Jazz tradition.

We show its roots in the evolution of music, and its continued relevance to today’s struggles, exhultations, and celebrations.

Reaching our full potential through creating a style and perspective worth sharing that is inimitable yet rooted.

The Context of Jazz

Jazz is the quintessential American expression.

Through it, many have reached a summit of artistic temperament, complete with swagger and extravagance, beauty and soul.

Jazz is also the product of mass exploitation, racism, and a reaction to that.

Jazz is surviving, and thriving under adversity.

Jazz is about the triumph of character, presented with a signature style and energy.

Our take on Jazz is based on practicing it. As a tribute. As a social currency and custom. As a journey to commune with those that came before, and to offer our perspective and life to its pursuit, its lessons and its challenges.

We promote and support voices currently and historically underrepresented in society.

Alt Jazz

We present our personal take on Jazz.

Here, we own the name Alt, in the pursuit of the music I love.

There is a degree to which “Alt” is, as usual, a shorthand for “alternate” or “altered”.

Jazz itself is a combination of traditions from both Africa and Europe, subsequently fused with musics around the world. There are many alternatives within the Jazz sphere.

We continue in this direction by collaborating with other artists and their traditions, shaping a more vibrant and new expression. This is our alternative contribution, Alt Jazz.

The journey towards crafting and presenting original material involves education, exploration, technique, materials, and an unrelenting drive towards windmills.

Not to be confused with some flavors of Dominant chords with lowered 13th degrees.