Every week, nearly 300 young people walk through the doors of the Don "Moose" Jamison Heritage School of Music—no auditions, no tuition, no barriers. Just kids, ages 8–18, learning the instruments and traditions that make New Orleans the cultural heartbeat of America.
This is where the next generation of jazz musicians, brass band leaders, and cultural ambassadors begins.
But operating costs are rising. Energy bills are climbing. And every dollar spent on utilities is a dollar that can't go to instruments, instruction, or student scholarships.
We're changing that.
Project Overview:
This solar project will bring the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation a 44.8 kW rooftop solar array to the George & Joyce Wein Jazz & Heritage Center—the school's permanent home.
The impact:
- 49,780 kWh of clean energy generated annually
- $7,000–$10,000 in annual savings reinvested directly into student programming
- 64,048 lbs of CO₂ avoided each year—equivalent to planting 1,000 trees
- Energy independence that keeps the school running even after major storms
"All cost savings will be directly invested in community programs that are primarily free to the public and participating students. This will also allow the Jazz & Heritage Foundation to not be burdened with the anticipated increases of energy usage, and to also have more consistent and reliable power, which will have better results to bring programming back after major weather events.", says Jonathan Solari, Director of Development at New Orleans Jazz & Heritage
Why This Matters Now
New Orleans is one of the most climate-vulnerable cities in America. When storms hit, power goes out. Schools close. Programs stop.
Solar changes that equation.
By generating our own energy, we:
- Reduce operating costs so more kids get access
- Build resilience so we can reopen faster after disasters
- Model sustainability for students and the cultural sector
In New Orleans, music isn't just education—it's economic infrastructure. Protecting it protects the entire community.
Through this project, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation continues to honor its legacy while embracing a sustainable future.
Annual Impact:
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THANK YOU to individuals and organizations who have made contributions to help bring solar to New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation!
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