Jazz Music: So much to learn, where do I start?

To music students the process of knowing who to listen to, and what to buy can be difficult. The fact that you are here at a jazz festival listening to musicians of all ages, playing a wide variety of styles is a great start. Next take advantage of meeting and talking to as many musicians as you can. Check out the world wide web and find suggested artist lists. Remember there is no one answer to the question of "Who should I Listen To?", but if you start to do some research many of the same names will keep popping up. Unlike "Pop" music you will need to search out jazz a little more, but once you do you will see that fantastic players can be found on every instrument from every generation. For a place to start, check out the BHS Band's web site www.beavercreekband.org and click on the suggested artist list. Go search out some music. Remember to use your local library. Then Listen, Listen, and Listen some more. This enjoyment will last a lifetime.