Jazz fans rejoice! There’s a new vibe happening just steps away from Drexel’s campus—and students are invited to be part of it!
The Community Education Center, located at 3500 Lancaster Avenue, is opening its
doors—and its stage—to Drexel students in a special way. Known for its welcoming spirit and
commitment to arts, culture and community connection, the CEC hosts great jazz performances
every second Friday and every fourth Saturday of the month, curated by Leo Gadson, a legendary figure in Philadelphia’s jazz scene and a respected executive of the Producers Guild of America.
For nearly 50 years, CEC has been a cornerstone for West African dance and drum traditions,
supporting artists and building community through the arts. It currently offers West African
dance classes twice a month—on the third Saturday (2:00–4:00 p.m.) and the fourth Friday (7:00–9:00 P.M.). Other programs include the Group Motion Workshop, featuring improvisational dance to live music every third Friday (8:00–10:00 P.M.)—also open to interested students. In an exclusive opportunity for Drexel students, tickets to these soul-stirring jazz nights—usually priced at $35 and up—are available for only $10 with a student ID. Whether someone is a jazz lover, an emerging musician or just someone looking for a new scene, this is a perfect place to vibe, unwind and connect. But that is not all.
Another opportunity for jazz enthusiasts and musicians presents itself in the basement of the Creese Student Center. WKDU is actively looking to recruit new members for exciting opportunities, including The Black Experience in Music radio program dedicated to classic, contemporary and socially conscious jazz. On June 15, Sep. 21 and Dec. 21, Sherri Pennington’s Community Spotlight Public Affairs program will host “The Show with Leo.” From 11:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. there will be a live studio performance featuring local musicians who will introduce themselves through engaging interviews with the artists. WKDU welcomes all genres and all students. For students interested in DJing, production, music promotion or community engagement. Membership meetings are held every Monday and Tuesday at 7 P.M. in the WKDU studio.
The CEC and The Black Experience in Music are also excited about collaborating with Drexel
University’s Jazztet and Jazz Orchestra in the Performing Arts Department – envisioning live
performances, student showcases and creative community projects. Music is a universal language that bridges gaps, builds bonds and uplifts the spirit—and together, this energy can stay alive and growing.
Start getting involved today!
Join WKDU: Member meetings Mondays and Tuesdays at 7 PM, Creese Student Center
basement.
Attend a Jazz Night: 2nd Fridays & 4th Saturdays at CEC — 3500 Lancaster Ave.
More Info:
Contact New Members at [email protected] to get involved in all genres of music at
the station
Contact Sherri Pennington at [email protected] for The Black Experience in
Music and CEC projects
Contact Brent White for info about Drexel’s Jazztet and Jazz Orchestra at
[email protected]
Bring creativity, curiosity and a love for music—and be part of something special, right in the University City neighborhood.