About
The Carmel Jazz Festival is a 501c3 non-profit organization and our mission is to support the youth and celebrate Indiana’s rich Jazz music history, highlight national and international Jazz, R&B and Blues musicians and spotlight and educate emerging, upcoming artists all to highlight the world class venues and greenspaces located in Carmel, Indiana in the hopes of energizing the community through the vibrant sounds of Jazz, Blues and R&B music.
Our Mission
Harmonizing Community
Through Jazz for Mental Wellness
The Carmel Jazz Festival champions the transformative power of music performance to enhance mental health and well-being across all generations. We are committed to creating inclusive opportunities for children, youth, and adults to experience the profound psychological benefits that emerge when jazz meets the human spirit.
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Our Core Belief
Music performance serves as a catalyst for mental wellness, fostering creativity, confidence, and emotional resilience while building meaningful social connections within our community.
Evidence-Based Impact
For Young People:
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Creativity & Confidence: Early music education significantly enhances creativity, confidence, and emotional stability (University of Southern California)
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Mental Health Support: Music therapy effectively reduces anxiety and depression symptoms in adolescents (Journal of Affective Disorders)
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Emotional Development: Musical engagement promotes mood regulation and cognitive enhancement (American Psychological Association)
For Adults:
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Stress Relief: Music performance reduces stress levels and boosts mood through natural endorphin and oxytocin release (Menninger Clinic)
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Cognitive Enhancement: Regular musical engagement improves memory, executive function, and problem-solving abilities
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Social Connection: Performance opportunities create meaningful community bonds and personal accomplishment
Our Commitment
Through world-class jazz performances, educational workshops, and community engagement, the Carmel Jazz Festival transforms our shared love of music into a powerful force for mental wellness, proving that when we make music together, we heal together.
Harmony and Hope Youth Foundation
*The Carmel Jazz Fest International, Harmony With Hope Youth Foundation, initiative offers underserved youth access to musical instruments and lessons. This program nurtures their creativity, boost confidence, and provides emotional support. Engaging with music can improve cognitive skills, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being. Providing the youth with access to music gives them a positive and an engaging activity, helping them invest their time constructively and fostering a sense of accomplishment and joy! Transforming young lives one note at a time.*
