THE MISSISSIPPI COAST JAZZ SOCIETY is one of the best kept secrets on the coast. Started in 1977 by a small band of musicians gathering for the fun of playing together, for each other, it grew into a formally organized society and was incorporated in 1978. Within the group are some of the finest jazz musicians and dedicated fans of jazz. The Society is dedicated to the performance and preservation of traditional jazz.
In our efforts to uphold our mission statement, we are actively involved with local school band programs. We accept donated musical instruments, have them refurbished, and donate them to local schools for use by youngsters wanting to participate in the school's band program but financially unable to provide their own instrument. Our musicians go to various schools to perform for the student body to encourage their interest in music. These dedicated musicians also go to the schools to work with the band directors in teaching students how to play their chosen instruments. We offer a yearly scholarship to local seniors who intend to further their musical education.