Italian Heritage Commission | Amistad Commission Collaboration-Impact of Jazz on Italian music production
March 22nd, 2025
On March 22nd, the New Jersey Italian Heritage Commission, in partnership with the Amistad Commission, hosted a captivating event, “Jazz Italian Style” exploring the profound impact of jazz on both Italy and Italian American cultural production. The event featured a dynamic panel discussion moderated by Maestro Joseph Pucciatti, with esteemed panelists Vincent Pelote, a Senior Archivist and Digital Preservation Strategist at the Rutgers Institute of Jazz, and William Friedwald, a renowned jazz critic and author. Together, they delved into the rich history of jazz music and its far-reaching influence on Italian musicians.
One of the key insights shared during the discussion was the historical connection between jazz, an African American music genre, and Italian musicians. This cultural exchange began as early as the 19th century, when Sicilian immigrants traveled to New Orleans via the Palermo-New Orleans route. As they integrated into the city, they encountered African American culture, leading to a significant cultural exchange. The panelists noted how jazz, carried by African American musicians traveling through Europe during WWI, made its way to Italy. By the 1930s, it had taken Italy’s music scene by storm, influencing generations of Italian musicians. Interestingly, the panelists also pointed out that even Benito Mussolini’s son was a fan of jazz, illustrating the genre’s widespread appeal.
Adding to the event’s vibrancy was a performance by Governor Livingston High School’s Jazz Band, led by Josef Ellis and Nicholas O’Sullivan. Selected from a pool of talented applicants, the band’s performance wowed the audience with a medley of jazz tunes, showcasing their impressive skill and passion for the genre. Their outstanding performance earned several standing ovations, underscoring the incredible work educators are doing in New Jersey to incorporate African American cultural contributions into their curricula.
This event beautifully highlighted the interconnectedness of New Jersey’s diverse cultural communities and the powerful collaboration between the Italian Heritage and Amistad Commissions. It served as a testament to how shared cultural experiences, like the influence of jazz, can bring communities together.
We would like to send a special thank you to Italian Heritage Commission Executive Director, Margaret Fontana, Chairman Emeritus Robert J. DiBiase, Chairman Vincent Maione, and Chair of the Curriculum Committee Dr. Gilda Rorro Baldassari.
African American History Day- Dr. Henry H. Davis Family School-Camden
February 19th, 2025
On February 19, 2025, the Amistad Commission made a visit to Dr. Henry Davis Elementary School in Camden, where they joined the students and staff for an unforgettable African American History Day celebration. Over 60 enthusiastic fourth and fifth-grade students showcased their incredible research projects, shining a spotlight on African American trailblazers with deep ties to New Jersey and their game-changing contributions to society.
Leading up to this momentous event, teachers empowered students with vital skills in research, source evaluation, writing, and bibliography creation. Students tapped into their creativity to transform their findings into stunning posters, eye-catching dioramas, and captivating performances. They delved into the legacies of legends like Florence Spearing Randolph, Paul Robeson, and E. Frederic Morrow, presenting their projects with passion, confidence, and pride.
The students didn’t just present their findings—they also shared insights into their research journey, the value of teamwork, and the unforgettable lessons they learned along the way. Judges were amazed by the depth of knowledge, artistic ingenuity, and polished presentation skills displayed by the young scholars. The dedication of the teachers shone through, as they expertly prepared students to excel and present to such an esteemed audience.
Every student was celebrated for their hard work and participation, with six outstanding students receiving “Excellence Awards” for their exceptional projects.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who attended to review the projects and offer their support. A special shout-out to Principal Danielle Montague and Teacher Leaders Cynthia Martinez and Neysha Parker, whose tireless efforts made this event a resounding success and continue to inspire both staff and students at Dr. Henry Davis Elementary School.