Jazz Educator Honored with Award
Leon Brady, musician, educator, and director of the Kansas City Youth Jazz is the 2007 Pinnacle Award honoree for Excellence in the Arts. The annual award, presented by the Johnson County Library Foundation, is given to a Kansas City artist chosen from nominees submitted by citizens of the community.
Brady's musical career began when he joined the U.S. Air Force in 1949. “I chose to play the drums because I thought it would be easy,” Brady said.“I was wrong. I didn’t like playing the drums at first because it was difficult, but I kept on doing it to stay in the Air Force.”
Nearly 60 years later, Brady is very happy for that turn in his life. He has toured and recorded with Ray Charles as well as many other national and international musicians. On display in his studio are the many plaques he has earned as well as photographs of the many musicians he has taught.
After serving in the Air Force Brady went on to study drums in college, earning his Bachelors and Masters Degree in Music Education. In 1957 Brady arrived in Kansas City to teach at Northeast Junior High. Later, he taught band, marching band, jazz band and orchestra at Sumner High School, earning many awards. From 1976 until 2000 he owned and operated Brady & Sons Music Company in Kansas City.
In 2000, Brady closed his retail store to dedicate his time to his true passion, teaching. He currently teaches private and group percussion lessons and has even developed a unique program for drum set students as young as 4 years old. He and his wife Linda designed and developed the Kansas City Youth Jazz Program. The program, which started with only 12 students will have 100 this fall. The students come from the inner city, rural areas and suburbs to practice and prepare for performances and competitions.
“Leon and I started the program to preserve jazz in Kansas City,” Linda said. “But when the kids arrived, we realized it was a lot more than music. Kids from Mission Hills were standing next to kids from the project, and it didn’t matter — everyone shared a love and passion for jazz.”
Leon Brady is revered by musicians, students, parents and jazz aficionados across Kansas City and well beyond. His mission is not only to teach music to young people, but to build self-confidence, discipline and sound decision making.
“His 50-year career has garnered him much recognition,” said Enid Dickson, Pinnacle Awards Chair. “But, perhaps the best measure is found in the countless students who’ve gone on to become renowned musicians, teachers, and leaders in their chosen professions. We’ll celebrate Leon’s legacy by honoring him with the Pinnacle Award.”
“My life is almost like a dream come true for me,” said Brady. “Helping kids learn to appreciate music has always been what it’s all about. The more kids who play music, the better off the world will be.”