The Donald Byrd Cultural Foundation will support the development of youth through the arts by providing programs that build character, promote social responsibility, and enhance cultural awareness for the community. Honoring the Legacy:
A message from Donald Byrd III
Our lives are often measured by the experiences we have, the values we live by, the ideas we share with others as well as our famili
es traditions. The Donald Cultural Foundation (DBCF) is rooted in my connection and respect for the Byrd Family legacy inspired by the leadership of my late grandfather, Rev. Elijah Thomas Byrd and the accomplishments of my late father jazz trumpeter and educator, Dr. Donaldson Toussaint L'Ouverture Byrd II. My father was named after his uncle Donaldson Byrd and his middle name was added in honor of Toussaint L'Ouverture the French General of Haiti. The impact of his career in music and education has sparked the creative and musical talent of many musicians, artist and thought leaders that have left powerful artistic expressions for the world. I look forward to using DBCF as a platform to connect the next generation to artistic resources giving each young person that is touched an opportunity to commit to their academic endeavors and discover an area of expression that will fortify the legacy they hope to establish. My father is a pioneer and a true example of a legacy builder. He used his gifts and asserted his beliefs in learning and the power of knowledge first recognized at Howard University starting in the late 1960's. He led a jazz band and developed a music studies program that opened the doors for many students. In 1973, he formed the Blackbyrds, a group consisting of students from Howard University. During this time he started to experiment with jazz fusion and R&B sounds and teamed up with writers/producers, Larry and Fonce Mizell also Howard students. This collaboration resulted in several major hits including "Happy Music," "Walking in Rhythm" and "Rock Creek Park." I am most appreciative of his influence and resources in ensuring that I attended the University of Massachusetts in Amherst. The results of my college experience led to my own career in education as a teacher and administer for 25 years. I now look to join forces with my wife, family, fellow educators, musicians, artist and stakeholder in the community. to lift a powerful legacy to self-expression, leadership and academic pursuits. It is my hope that all those that support the mission of DBCF will be encouraged to teach and inspire a young person along the way.
