Biography
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Reuben Jackson
Poet, Educator, Jazz Historian, Music Reviewer
Born: 1956
Died: February 16, 2024 at the age of 67.
Reuben Jackson, a beacon in the realms of poetry, education, jazz history, and music criticism, illuminated the paths of countless individuals with his multifaceted talents and profound commitment to the arts. Born in 1956, Jackson's legacy as a creative force and mentor spanned several decades, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural and educational landscapes.
Jackson's educational journey saw its roots firmly planted at Goddard College, where he graduated in 1978, setting the stage for a career that would traverse the complexities of jazz and the written word. His tenure as the curator of the Duke Ellington Collection at the Smithsonian Institution from 1989 to 2009 underscored his deep-seated passion for jazz, a genre that significantly influenced both his personal and professional life. Further extending his influence into the public sphere, Jackson hosted Friday Night Jazz on Vermont Public Radio from 2012 to 2018, sharing his love and deep knowledge of jazz with a wide audience.
As a poet, Jackson's contributions were both profound and poignant. Works such as "Fingering the Keys" and "Scattered Clouds: New & Selected Poems" resonated with readers for their rhythmic beauty and insightful observations into the human experience. His commitment to fostering new talent was evident through his mentorship with The Young Writers Project, where he served on the Board since 2020, guiding and inspiring young writers to find their voices and pursue their creative passions.
Born: 1956
Died: February 16, 2024 at the age of 67.
Reuben Jackson, a beacon in the realms of poetry, education, jazz history, and music criticism, illuminated the paths of countless individuals with his multifaceted talents and profound commitment to the arts. Born in 1956, Jackson's legacy as a creative force and mentor spanned several decades, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural and educational landscapes.
Jackson's educational journey saw its roots firmly planted at Goddard College, where he graduated in 1978, setting the stage for a career that would traverse the complexities of jazz and the written word. His tenure as the curator of the Duke Ellington Collection at the Smithsonian Institution from 1989 to 2009 underscored his deep-seated passion for jazz, a genre that significantly influenced both his personal and professional life. Further extending his influence into the public sphere, Jackson hosted Friday Night Jazz on Vermont Public Radio from 2012 to 2018, sharing his love and deep knowledge of jazz with a wide audience.
As a poet, Jackson's contributions were both profound and poignant. Works such as "Fingering the Keys" and "Scattered Clouds: New & Selected Poems" resonated with readers for their rhythmic beauty and insightful observations into the human experience. His commitment to fostering new talent was evident through his mentorship with The Young Writers Project, where he served on the Board since 2020, guiding and inspiring young writers to find their voices and pursue their creative passions.