Thomas Kikuchi Awarded the 2017 Duke Madison Memorial Scholarship

The Jazz Arts Foundation has awarded its 2017 Duke Madison Memorial Scholarship to Thomas Kikuchi. The son of Ken and Paige Kikuchi, Thomas is currently a Senior at Lafayette High School and is a member of the Central Kentucky Youth Jazz Arts Orchestra (CKYO JAO). His primary focus is the piano, but he is also accomplished on the drums. After graduation Thomas plans on majoring in engineering at Northwestern University.

By accepting this award, Thomas will be granted tuition and lodging at Jamey Aebersold’s Summer 2017 Jazz Workshop in Louisville, KY. This workshop has the well-deserved reputation for producing the best in intensive programs for learning jazz improvisation. Staff members there are dedicated to providing an intensive learning experience in Jazz.

The Duke Madison Memorial Scholarship was created to honor legendary Lexington saxophone icon, Clarence “Duke” Madison. The board of directors of JAF created this scholarship in 1992 to preserve his legacy. Mr. Madison is remembered for sharing his musical genius with the Lexington community for over 50 years.

Click HERE for more information about Duke Madison, the scholarship, and a list of past recipients.
by Brenda Stratman, JAF/CKYO JAO Liaison