Next Jazz Legacy has announced the eight women and non-binary artists who were accepted into their 2025 Cohort. The program, founded by New Music USA and the Berklee Institute of Jazz and Gender Justice, aims to tackle gender and racial inequities by offering intergenerational apprenticeship, mentorship and professional development opportunities to people who have been historically underrepresented in jazz.
The 2025 cohort includes Alexandra Ridout (trumpeter), April May Webb (vocalist), Brenda Navarrete Guzman (Percussionist), Carmen Quill (bassist), Chanelle Ignant (guitarist), DoYeon Kim (Gayageum performer), Melissa Almaguer (Tap dance/feet percussionist) and Nora Stanley (saxophonist).
“I’m very excited about Next Jazz Legacy moving into its fourth year!” says Terri Lyne Carrington, artistic director of Next Jazz Legacy. “We have been working with some amazingly diverse improvisers in jazz, as well as seasoned veterans, toward a more inclusive jazz future. I have always felt that on-stage apprenticeship was highly beneficial in my own development and am so happy that we can assist these incredible emerging musicians with apprenticeship and mentorship in their artistic journey.”
As part of the program, the cohort will participate in apprenticeships led by established jazz artists such as Melissa Aldana, Kris Davis, Billy Hart, Meshell Ndegeocello, Kassa Overall, Danilo Perez, Tyshawn Sorey, and David Virelles. 2025 creative mentors include Becca Stevens, Ellen Arkbro, Ledisi, Mark Dresser, Marquis Hill, Matthew Stevens, Susie Ibarra, and Terri Lyne Carrington.
“I am so excited to be part of the 2025 Next Jazz Legacy cohort,” says 2025 awardee Melissa Almaguer. “As a woman tap dancer in this industry, to be acknowledged and accepted as a musician in this program is reassuring and an honor. I’m looking forward to learning from all the resources that NJL provides and to receive guidance from some of my biggest inspirations. I’m grateful for programs like this that are community-oriented; in this chaotic world it’s important to have a safe space where you are supported and guided.”
In addition to the combined individual and group learning opportunities, the 2025 awardees will receive $10,000, performance opportunities with a master bandleader, two-way mentorship, a learning cohort, and professional promotional support.
The 2025 Next Jazz Legacy cohort will perform together for the first time on May 14 at The Jazz Gallery in New York City. To learn more, visit newmusicusa.org.