This week, on The Parents' Solution, I had the unique opportunity to interview Rick DellaRatta. Rick is a highly acclaimed jazz artist, composer, entrepreneur, and a philanthropist. He has created a Benefit Concert Series that helps over 850 causes including programs that bring music back into schools, give instruments to schools, and give instruments to children and adults.

Rick DellaRatta is the founder of Jazz for Peace, which is an organization that helps outstanding causes: "helping those who are helping others." The idea of Jazz for Peace began when DellaRatta realized through his travels that music is an important part of solving problems. Music has a knack of being able to cut through barriers. Rick also shared that he was an eyewitness to the 9/11 attacks in America, and that in that time he wrote a poem that has he has held on to as a mission statement. Rick strives to meet the expectations of his statement every day, Below is a powerful quote from his poem:

"The gift of giving is our greatest privilege. I hear jazz for peace."

DellaRatta believes that music is a stimulant of intellect -I'd say rightfully so. He believes that children should be exposed to all forms of music, and that they should have a chance to pick and learn an instrument. Can you imagine the richness that such open possibilities could bring? Creativity, expression, musical attunement, and even mathematical foundations could be taught and built upon in a free-flowing musical program.

Rick made it clear that he wants to benefit listeners and entertain audiences with his much-needed message without abandoning the art form of jazz, Indeed, as you listen to his pieces, you will find that he is meeting his goal in beautiful form.

For more information about Rick, check out the link: Rick DellaRatta - Jazz Pianist, Vocalist and Composer. If you have an outstanding cause that you would like Rick to support, email info@jazzforpeace.org.