In 1859, from the heart of New Orleans, the Humphrey family birthed a musical legacy that resonates through the annals of American cultural history. At the forefront of this narrative stands James Brown "J.B." Humphrey, a maestro whose name became synonymous with the birth of jazz, a genre that would shape the nation's musical landscape.
J.B. Humphrey was more than a musician; he was an educator and a visionary who saw beyond conventional boundaries. His teaching methods nurtured a generation of artists, not just jazz or classical musicians, but individuals who embodied the essence of music itself. J.B.'s commitment to cultivating true musicians, rather than confining them to specific genres, laid the foundation for a legacy that transcended time. His approach to teaching can be seen as an early form of professional development, where he focused on holistic growth, creative expression, and fostering a deep understanding of music.
James Brown "J.B." Humphrey stands as the patriarch of this musical lineage, a visionary whose influence extended far beyond his time. He was not only a maestro but also a mentor, shaping the lives and careers of countless musicians. Among his relatives were his daughters Lillian and Jamesetta, who pursued their own artistic paths, and his grandson, Umar Sharif (formerly Emery Thompson), who would become a renowned jazz trumpeter. Umar is the father of Hallema Sharif, who carries forward his legacy with pride and dedication.
Humphrey's impact on jazz history reverberates through generations. He was the grandfather of Percy Humphrey, trumpet, and Willie Humphrey Jr., clarinet, both early members of the world-renowned Preservation Hall Jazz Band. Professor Humphrey was also grandfather to their sibling Earl Humphrey, a trombonist, further solidifying the family's musical legacy. Umar Sharif, with his virtuoso trumpet skills and pioneering spirit, continued to expand upon this legacy, pushing the boundaries of jazz and inspiring future generations.
Today, the legacy lives on through Jelani Akil Bauman, a grandson who embodies the spirit of musical innovation and cultural storytelling. His trumpet serves as a bridge between generations, connecting past and present, tradition and innovation. Jelani's global journey, from the streets of New Orleans to international stages, reflects the universal appeal of jazz and its ability to foster connection and understanding across borders.
Floyd Umar Alonzo Clyburn, Umar's grandson, and Jelani's brother, continues the family's artistic tradition with his vocal talents, exploring various genres from classical to R&B, and Neo-soul. Similarly, Jamil Sharif, Jr., Jamil's son, adds his unique voice to the family's musical lineage, embarking on his own artistic journey in his early twenties.
The Humphrey-Sharif legacy is not just a story of musical brilliance; it's a saga of resilience, creativity, and cultural contribution. It's a reminder of the power of art to transcend barriers, connect people across generations, and express the deepest truths of our shared humanity. In the melodies of the past and the harmonies of the future, the legacy of these families continues to resonate, a timeless symphony of creativity, heritage, and inspiration.
Drawing inspiration from this rich heritage, Catalyst Collective Initiatives (CCI) was born. Rooted in the values of inclusivity, innovation, and belonging, CCI aims to create spaces where individuals are free to express themselves, supported in their journey of self-discovery, and empowered to contribute their unique talents to the collective symphony of human experience.
Just as J.B. Humphrey taught his pupils to become musicians, not just jazz or classical musicians, but true artists, CCI seeks to empower individuals to become their best selves, embracing their unique voices. Like J.B., who wrote melodies for his students and arranged music that transcended genres, CCI designs programs that bridge the gap between tradition and innovation, fostering a culture where every voice is heard, and every individual is valued.
The ideals of BE. BEcome. BElong. are deeply connected to the professional development philosophy of J.B. Humphrey. By focusing on holistic growth, creative expression, and the power of authentic connections, CCI embodies these principles, creating an environment where every individual can thrive.
In the spirit of J.B. Humphrey, who believed in the transformative power of music, CCI is committed to creating a world where differences are embraced, and all individuals have the opportunity to thrive. As we continue our journey, we carry forward the legacy of the Humphrey and Sharif families, honoring their contributions to music and culture, and building a future where everyone has the space to BE, the support to BEcome, and the community to BElong.
Catalyst Collective Initiatives (CCI) is a pioneering professional development organization dedicated to fostering authentic conversations, mutual respect, and understanding within diverse corporate environments. We employ cultural competence as a key driver to encourage open dialogue and connection, creating programs that eliminate confusion, foster engagement, and promote collective empowerment for organizational success.
Welcome to Catalyst Collective Initiatives, where we are committed to cultivating potential and catalyzing excellence.
