PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Two Philadelphia jazz institutions are teaming up to make sure the sound they love so much does not miss a beat.
The Clef Club was founded in 1935. Since its inception, it has been responsible for the development of generations of Philly jazz musicians.
"When they established the Clef Club, it was always a form of education," said Lovett Hines, the club's artistic director since 1979.
"The jam sessions...younger musicians would come and play with older musicians."
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Hines said the club, listed as a non-profit organization, is needed now more than ever, as he sees fewer and fewer musical resources for kids.
"Having an environment available so students who don’t have music available in their formal education program can come to the Clef Club anytime, go to the practice rooms, come in with their friends," said Hines.
"That’s when the development and magic happens."
The club itself is now in need of help.
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"We need upgrades," Hines admitted.
"We need a heating system. We need a new sound system. We need a new roof."
On Thursday, the Clef Club is hosting a special benefit concert at Chris' Jazz Cafe, where many of their now world-renowned alumni will return to Philly to play and raise money for the club that helped boost their careers.
