Band students had an unforgettable Friday as they welcomed two incredible guests: Augustus Morant of Joey Morant - All That Jazz Inc. and Tuffus Zimbabwe, the talented keyboardist from the Saturday Night Live house band and assistant musical director for Trilogy: an Opera Company.
The duo shared their personal stories, giving students an up-close look at the world of professional music. Augustus and Tuffus talked about their musical journeys, their family legacies, and the role music continues to play in shaping their lives and careers.
Tuffus shared stories of his grandmother, Mildred Jenkins, a trailblazing vocalist who specialized in operatic and spiritual music. She earned degrees from Benedict College and Boston University and a music diploma from the Sorbonne in Paris. Mildred’s brother, Edmund Thornton Jenkins, was a brilliant composer, arranger, and multi-instrumentalist.
To preserve his family's legacy, Tuffus has painstakingly restored Edmund’s handwritten compositions, turning them into printed scores for future generations to enjoy. Edmund was a pioneer of the Charleston Jazz style, which rose to global fame during the Harlem Renaissance and in Paris in the 1920s.
Charleston has long been a cradle of jazz, thanks in part to the rich cultural heritage of South Carolina’s Gullah community. The Jenkins Orphanage Band, which played a significant role in shaping the Charleston Jazz sound, was a major influence on the global jazz scene.
Another Charleston legend, Joey Morant, also left his mark on jazz history. Born in 1938, Joey attended local schools before furthering his education at the University of Hartford College of Music and the College of Charleston. His influence is still celebrated today.
Friday’s event wasn’t just about music; it was about connecting Woodland students to the rich history of jazz and the inspiring legacies of those who came before them. Augustus and Tuffus left a lasting impression, encouraging students to pursue their passions and honor the roots of the music they play.
Woodland High School is proud to provide opportunities like this for its students and is grateful to Augustus Morant and Tuffus Zimbabwe for sharing their time and talent.
Learn More:
Discover Joey Morant’s legacy: Joey Morant - All That Jazz Inc.
Explore Tuffus Zimbabwe’s work: Tuffus Zimbabwe Official Website