Always his own PR, Prince has reportedly donated money to a Portland-based high school jazz band so they can travel to New York for a renowned music program.

Essentially Ellington is, as their website points out, a ”free program for high school jazz bands” which ”aims to elevate musicianship, broaden perspectives and inspire performance”. It’s based at the city’s Lincoln Center.

As the New York Post report, “The Purple One donated proceeds from his April 21 concert to the American Music Program so the group can travel to compete in Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Essentially Ellington high school competition and festival”.

Essentially Ellington runs between 10-12 May. Prince, on the other hand, is expected to release a new album later this year.

[via FACT]