Jazz Journalists Association members — most writers or broadcasters, living in or near U.S. major or smaller cities — want more connections throughout the jazz Jecosystem from their annual memberships, according to the JJA’s 2020 Members’ Survey, conducted in September and early October.
The survey finds are far from inclusive of the jazz journalism field as a whole. Respondents were fewer than 20% of currently active professional, student, emeritus and associate JJA members, sadly — 30 in all, self-selected and arguably not a representative sample. Still, data can be derived.
Respondents mostly (26 out of 30) described themselves as in mid-career or as veterans.
The majority work at least portions of two days of their week on journalistic activities, and most have other income-producing employment as well — unsurprising, as a plurality (43%) report they earn 10 percent or less of their income from jazz journalism, and about 17% report earning 91 to 100% from it. However, few supplement their journalism with teaching.
For their earnings or efforts, the responding jazz journalists publish in all possible formats and platforms, including sites of their own (which typically pay nothing).
For subject matter, they depend overwhelmingly on live performances, interviews and recorded performances. More than 50 percent have covered online activities, including live-streamed events.
The survey, first of its kind conducted by the JJA was intended to collect information about members’ demographics and their goals. For insight into how jazz journalists do their work, we recommend the 2020 Jazz Journalists Survey conducted by JazzFuel and released last February.
In answer to the JJA’s questions about JJA programs, virtually all respondents — 96% — knew about and had participated in the Jazz Awards, 80% in Jazz Heroes celebrations, 70% were aware of the JJA’s Facebook page and monthly Members’ Updates.
Of JJA programs that might be expanded, the Jazz Awards was mentioned by two-thirds, as were members’ online meetups organized by region. Members’ online meetups organized by topic interested 17 of the 30 who filled out the questionnaire. Most of the JJA’s programs received expansion support of 30% to 45% of those clicking a box.
Ninety-six percent of respondees — all but two — said the current level of JJA dues is “just right.” Seventy-three percent said they are willing to volunteer to work on JJA activities.
Further information gleaned from the JJA Members Survey will be published as findings are analyzed by the board. Requests for more data can also be emailed to President@JazzJournalists.org.
