Book Proceeds to Benefit Duke Ellington School of The Arts

will soon be getting a few more instruments thanks to author Renatta DeBlase and her audio book, “WITH STARS IN MY EYES.”

DeBlase’s book, a set of two audio CD’s narrated by the author and written in the form of a journal, chronicle her time spent in the jazz world, working to get more attention and respect for the genre. DeBlase was instrumental in helping bring jazz into concert halls, after she launched a letter-writing campaign asking for people to appreciate it and give it a chance, she said.

“It was a time of discrimination, and I knew that they deserved so much more,” DeBlase said. “These were talented and modest men. I want to help keep their spirits alive.”

Much of the book talks about DeBlase’s work with musician Billy Taylor. She said the book should be a tribute to his memory and should promote and honor his legacy. 

“After the passing of Billy Taylor, I read a quote from him that he was very concerned that he wouldn’t be remembered for his contribution to music. I just couldn’t let that happen; Billy gave so much of himself to his audiences around the
world, that I felt I had to do my part to keep his legacy alive,” DeBlase said, according to a press release. 

All the proceeds of this book will go directly to The Duke Ellington School of the Arts, where DeBlase recorded the book. The school, which was founded in 1974, is a public high school that offers a dual degree program: a full college prep curriculum and pre-professional arts training.

“We plan to use the donated proceeds from the DeBlase book to purchase instruments in the Instrumental Music department and for The Literary Media & Communications department where the need is the greatest,” said Director of Institutional Giving at the school, Joe Green.

DeBlase said that she chose to give the proceeds to the school, because of her appreciation for both Ellington and the work that the school does.

“It’s a fabulous first rate school,” DeBlase said. “Unless talent is directed it’s easy to fall prey to violence or to drugs.”

DeBlase said she hopes that her book can serve to educate people, both young and old, about the history of jazz music and its artists, and to show people what they can accomplish with the right mind frame.

“Make a difference in a peaceful way, and don’t sell out,” DeBlase advises.

"WITH STARS IN MY EYES" is available for purchase at DeBlase's website or on amazon.com.