What was the Left Bank Jazz Society?
Benny Kearse, inspired by the former Interracial Jazz Society founded in 1956, carried on its purpose with the creation of a non-profit organization called Left Bank Jazz Society in 1964 with co-founder Vernon Welsh. Together, they demonstrated the idea of a peaceful interracial community, with one being African American and the other being Caucasian. During a time of civil unrest for the American population, the Left Bank Jazz Society continued to promote the integration of people of different backgrounds through a shared interest in jazz music, specifically live jazz music. The society was not only inclusive of its audience members but also of the musicians who wanted to play at the Left Bank Jazz Society. This was because they were more focused on providing for the community than making a profit. The community had a strong desire for live music, and so the society’s creation was made possible because it could fulfill that need within the Baltimore community.
What Benefits Did It Provide The Community?
In addition to Left Bank Chapter in Baltimore, there were three other chapters. There was the Dc Chapter, 954 Chapter, and the Jessup Chapter in Maryland. The 954 Chapter of the Left Bank Jazz Society not only helped to provide entertainment for the prisoners but also created a means for inmates to share their perspectives with the public through a publication called Jazzbo. In the publication social issues and hardships that inmates and their families encountered are discussed. Outside of prison the Left Bank Jazz Society in Baltimore supported the development of infrastructure and culture. The society donated a portion of funds earned through their concerts to help fund the construction of the Provident Hospital and they also performed free concerts sponsored by the National Endowment at high schools such as Southern High School in Baltimore. Furthermore they supported