In June 2023, Dr. Israel Neuman was honored with a Jazz Road Creative Residency grant of $21,000 from the South Arts organization, enabling the production of original music for a forthcoming album.

In partnership with the TSU School of Communication, Dr. Neuman collaborated with TSU students and faculty throughout the month of August to produce eight new release-ready master recordings.

This musical repertoire was showcased by the Volution Ensemble in a live concert that took place in the TSU President Lounge on October 12, 2022.

Featuring saxophonists Dr. Brian Perez, guitarist Sebastian Morales, pianist Jarrett McConnell, and drummer Willie Britton III, the Volution Ensemble performed eclectic compositions derived from contemporary jazz, hip hop, interactive electronics, and folk.

This all-original music was co-written by Dr. Neuman (the ensemble’s bassist/producer) and the ensemble’s vocalists Trinity Brooks and Cole Bracey.

The project boasted a proficient sound production team, comprising SOC students Christopher Jarmon, Marquis Walker, and Dasha Brooks, as well as a video production team led by Prof. Arthur Murray, accompanied by SOC students Amira Smith, Josh Molock, and Braxton Turner. The live concert was skillfully managed by Mrs. Karina Williams and Prof. Ladonia Randle.

This event was made possible through the generous support of Jazz Road, a national initiative by South Arts, funded by the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation, with additional contributions from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation.

Visit the Neuman 2023 Jazz Road Project Playlist >>>