King Saladeen Joins Harlem School of the Arts in Celebrating Jazz and Creativity

Harlem, New York (February 18, 2025) — In a city where jazz has long been the heartbeat of artistic expression, the Harlem School of the Arts (HSA) is poised to honor that legacy with the launch of the Dizzy Gillespie Jazz Academy on February 20th. This new and entirely free music program, made possible by the Herb Alpert Foundation, seeks to nurture young musicians and cultivate the next generation of jazz artists. The initiative aligns seamlessly with the mission of contemporary artist King Saladeen, who will lend his creative voice to the celebration with an on-site exhibition and donation of his artwork in support of HSA’s efforts.

For King Saladeen, whose Create Motivate Inspire brand embodies the very essence of artistic empowerment, this collaboration is deeply personal. His connection to jazz runs through his family history—his grandfather, an ardent jazz enthusiast, introduced him to the sounds of legends like Dizzy Gillespie at an early age. Even in later years, their bond remained strong, with his grandfather bringing records to his studio, filling the space with the rhythmic improvisations of jazz while they painted together. “For me, art and music have always been intertwined, and I want to help give kids the same creative freedom that inspired me,” says Saladeen.

The Dizzy Gillespie Jazz Academy arrives at a crucial time when arts education programs continue to prove their impact on young minds. HSA’s goal is not just to teach music but to instill life-changing skills:

Broadening horizons and shaping future aspirations.

Encouraging students to set SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals.

Establishing meaningful relationships with trusted mentors and peers.

Cultivating collaboration and fostering a sense of community.

Bringing joy through artistic expression and the discipline of musicianship.

Enrollment for the program is completely free, with rolling registration. Young musicians will gain access to structured jazz instruction, workshops, and performance opportunities at HSA. Many participants will also receive high-quality instruments at no cost, ensuring that financial barriers do not stand in the way of their artistic growth.

The inaugural celebration will be a momentous occasion, featuring a cocktail reception hosted by James C. Horton, President & CEO of HSA. The evening will also spotlight King Saladeen’s art, reinforcing the inextricable link between music and visual storytelling. With his vibrant, expressive works on display, Saladeen’s presence will serve as a testament to the power of creative synergy.

For more information on the event and King Saladeen’s art, please email oren@kingsaladeenart.com

Media Contact:

Oren Schneider

Manager, King Saladeen Art

(845) 461-8900

www.kingsaladeenart.com