Educator & Author

Louise Rogers' work with children was praised by noted jazz historian Nat Hentoff as “the most joyously encouraging way of expanding the audience for jazz I’ve heard”. She was named a 2021 “Jazz Hero” by the Jazz Journalists Association for her work bringing jazz to the children of Washington Heights.

She has authored five books for introducing jazz to children, as well as the picture book, “Miles Davis was his Name - So What”, and has recorded three CDs of jazz for children.

As Co-founder and Artistic Director of Jazz Wahi, Louise Speerheads Jazz Wahi Kids, which delivers a variety of jazz programming for children. Every first Saturday of the month, Louise and her band play jazz and read jazz-themed books to children aged 3-7 (and their families).

These interactive performances are the best way to start your family’s weekends off swinging!

11:00-11:45 AM at the Fort Washington Library, 535 W. 179th St.

Books by Louise Rogers

Miles Davis Was His Name - So What" is a captivating children's book that introduces young readers to the legendary jazz trumpeter and innovator, Miles Davis. Through vibrant illustrations of musical notes, instruments, cityscapes, and birds, this book brings Davis' groundbreaking composition "So What" to life. With original lyrics set to the iconic tune, children are inspired to learn about this visionary artist who revolutionized jazz. This delightful book, written by Louise and illustrated by Francis Hsueh, is a must-have for any family seeking to foster an appreciation for music and creativity in their little ones.

Miles Davis Was His Name - So What

Jazzy Fariy Tales - Volume 1

A delightful offering from classroom teacher and storyteller Susan Milligan and jazz singer and music teacher Louise Rogers, the Jazzy Fairy Tales Resource Guide and CD is designed to bring jazz music into your classroom. The activities provided in the manual may be used as a supplement to an existing program or to provide a ready-made, easy-to-use, all-encompassing music curriculum. The Appendix includes music theory terms, jazz terminology, standard blues form, and notation (melody with chords) for most of the themes and songs.

Jazzy Fariy Tales - Volume 2

Another delightful offering from classroom teacher and storyteller Susan Milligan and jazz singer and music teacher Louise Rogers, Jazzy Fairy Tales Volume II continues the jazz adventures for young children with three new fairy tales designed to bring jazz music into your classroom. The activities provided are a charming way to introduce young children to jazz with the musical stories of Georgie the Jazzy Giant," "The Gunnigator," and "The Jazzy Gingerbread Man." Jazzy Fairy Tales II Book and CD may be used to supplement an existing program or to provide a ready-made, easy-to-use, all-encompassing music curriculum. The CD is narrated and beautifully sung by Louise Rogers with easy call-and-response exercises and songs to accompany the stories. Jazzy Fairy Tales II is user-friendly and requires no previous musical knowledge. A delightful educational resource for any classroom! Recommended for grades Pre-K to 3."