[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 96 (Monday, June 25, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1131]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                HONORING THE MUTUAL MUSICIANS FOUNDATION

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. EMANUEL CLEAVER

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, June 25, 2012

  Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I proudly rise today to acknowledge the 
Mutual Musicians Foundation for their tireless efforts in preserving 
Kansas City Jazz history. Jazz music has greatly influenced the history 
and culture of the United States and of Missouri's Fifth Congressional 
District, which I am honored to represent. Located in the heart of the 
historic 18th and Vine Jazz District, the Mutual Musicians Foundation 
continues to bring the nostalgia of early jazz to the forefront of the 
music scene for generations to come.
  Originally home to the Colored Musicians Protective Local Union #627, 
the historic venue opened its doors in 1930. Established in 1917, Local 
Union #627, then known as the ``Colored Musicians Union'' operated as a 
social center, engagement clearinghouse, and as a vehicle for 
grievances against unfair practices from booking agents and band 
leaders. Some of the jazz music's most influential musicians have 
walked through their doors, including Charlie Parker, Count Basie, Big 
Joe Turner, Hot Lips Page, and Mary Lou Williams.
  In collaboration with the Historic Jazz Foundation, the Mutual 
Musicians Foundation has created an educational experience that will be 
relished for many generations to come. Through my support for 
congressional funding, the Film Archival Project has been made 
possible. This project will be beneficial in archiving historical 
photography, videos, and memorabilia of jazz music's most significant 
musicians. This project will also make the preservation of important 
film from jazz musicians possible.
  Jazz has been played continuously at the Mutual Musicians Foundation 
since 1930, making it the longest running jazz location in the United 
States and in the world. Because it is the place where the Kansas City 
Style of jazz was born, it has been designated as a National Historic 
Landmark by the U.S. Department of the Interior.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and our colleagues in the House join me 
in honoring the Mutual Musicians Foundation for their years of 
dedicated service to Kansas City's rich jazz community. Continuing to 
support such a worthy institution is not a duty, but instead an honor.

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