Friends of Frank DeMiero
Friends of Frank DeMiero (FOFD) was formed in 2007 as a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation based in Edmonds, Washington, to honor and continue the vision of Frank DeMiero, a northwest resident and nationally known icon in jazz education.
The primary mission of FOFD board of directors is focused on helping young people develop life skills through music. The underlying philosophy that continues to govern our activities was first put into action by Frank DeMiero in 1976 with the establishment of the Frank DeMiero Jazz Camp. Frank believed that in a non-competitive atmosphere, opportunities could be provided for students and teachers to learn about jazz, practice performance skills, engage in activities aimed at fostering music appreciation, and participate in activities focused on instilling a positive attitude and recognizing the importance of becoming the “best that you can be” in whatever endeavor you choose to pursue. Jazz Camp and the ensuing jazz festivals produced by DeMiero were designed to help students understand the importance of tolerance for and acceptance of others’ views, creating a positive environment through encouragement and support of colleagues regardless of their skills levels, and the importance of understanding the diversity of experiences that shape the human experience.
The DeMiero Jazz Fest, FOFD’s annual program, builds on the lessons learned during this rich history and incorporates many of the successful components of these earlier events. Frank DeMiero continues to be the creative catalyst for our efforts, and the DeMiero Jazz Fest continues to evolve as it pursues its mission to help students and, indeed all members of the community, recognize the important role that music plays in the human experience.
What Do We Do?
Friends of Frank DeMiero produces an annual jazz festival held in early spring each year. The festival has grown in scope providing more opportunities for the music community to experience jazz. The three-day DeMiero Jazz Fest consists of two components; a daytime performance/clinic component for all-age school and community-based vocal groups and an evening public concert component that features prominent artists from the world of jazz.
During the daytime component, non-competitive sessions are held in which students perform for and are critiqued by prominent jazz educators. All participants are invited to meet and interact with headliner guest artists in a group setting.
Public concerts are held on three consecutive evenings. This component provides an opportunity for the general public to experience the energy and enthusiasm generated in the students from their participation in the daytime component. Some of the headliners for past festivals include jazz luminaries Dee Daniels (DeMiero Jazz Fest Artistic Director), Ernestine Anderson, Four Freshmen, the Diva Jazz Orchestra, Ernie Andrews, Jay Leonhart, The Four Freshmen, Carmen Bradford, Jeff Hamilton, Byron Stripling, Greta Matassa, Sara Gazarek, Karrin Allyson, Freddy Cole, John Pizzarelli, and New York Voices.