CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- The Charleston Jazz Series began in 1991, when Will Carter and a bunch of friends decided to see what kind of jazz band they could hire if they pooled their money.

Each kicked in $150 for what would eventually become a yearly series of concerts and jazz workshops.

"Our mission is to promote the appreciation and the availability of what we call modern jazz, which means everything after World War II," Carter said in a 2003 interview.

Now in its 21st year, the jazz series continues on donations, sponsorships, season ticket sales and a healthy dose of faith. But the series has remained true to its mission of bringing world-class jazz musicians to the relatively small town of Charleston.

"When the artists find out who we've had, they can't believe it," Carter said in 2003. "People who know jazz know we've had an amazing roster."

Most concerts are held at Edgewood Country Club, with a buffet dinner available to go along with the music. Past Jazz Series artists include Charleston-based but world-renowned pianist Bob Thompson, the Chick Corea Trio, sultry vocalist Jane Monheit, sexy saxophone soloist Pamela Williams and trumpeter Chris Botti.

The series generally includes five concerts and a number of jazz workshops.

Concerts left in this year's series include saxophonist Donald Harrison on Feb. 24, French guitarist Marc Antoine on March 30, Italian guitarist Peppino D'Agostino and Paraguay-born violinist Carlos Reyes on April 20 and the duo of guitarist Matt Marshak and saxophonist Steve Cole on Nov. 4.

For more information, call 304-340-1474 or visit www.charlestonjazz.org.