Founded in 1989, the IASJ has been a positive force toward benefitting thousands of people involved in jazz education. The IASJ enables students, teachers, and staff of schools of jazz around the world to connect, to learn from each other and to perform at the highest international level. Contributing to and being part of the worldwide network of the IASJ means shaping and being shaped by jazz, an international living art form.
Establishing the IASJ is by far the most important work I have done in my life as a professional musician. It surpasses my career and experiences, which although have made me what I am, pale in comparison to the positive and far-reaching work that the IASJ has accomplished and continues doing. I feel like I have made a real contribution to the world and will continue my work in this way as long as possible.
David Liebman is the Artistic Director of the IASJ. He is started the IASJ in 1988. The Artistic Director sees to it that the initial purpose of the IASJ is maintained: creating cross-cultural communication through jazz education. In all artistic matters, the Artistic Director is consulted by the Daily Board and the Executive Director.
Walter (Wouter) Turkenburg is the Executive Director of the IASJ. The Artistic Director and the Executive Director work closely together. The Executive Director sees to it that the IASJ Service Bureau is offering support to the IASJ Members, takes care of all communication within the IASJ and helps to prepare and execute the IASJ Jazz Meetings.