Creative community spaces – by, and for, women and non-binary musicians
Since 2011, Amy K Bormet has curated Washington Women In Jazz to provide spaces celebrating the women and non-binary artists of DC’s renowned improvisational music communities. Held annually in March, the Washington Women In Jazz Festival centers around an Emerging Artist Showcase, elevating young musicians and providing opportunities to connect with professional musicians. The festival is rounded out with a continuously evolving slate of jam sessions, concerts, lectures, and forums.
Originating at the crossroads of DC’s jazz heritage and do-it-yourself ethos
From its very first years, the festival has hosted events at venues spanning many of DC’s artistic traditions – from legendary jazz venues (Blues Alley, Bohemian Caverns, Twins Jazz) to venerated DIY spaces (Rhizome, The Red Door, Union Arts) and popup events in visual art spaces and nonprofits (Phillips Collection, Smithsonian, Pen Arts). With this wide offering, Washington Women in Jazz aims to broaden and strengthen the region’s community of women and non-binary musicians.