Beginning Jazz Ensemble – SPRING Semester

This ensemble is designed for middle school and high school students who are new to playing jazz in a group. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to build confidence in your ensemble skills, this is the perfect place to grow.

In weekly rehearsals, the full group will come together to learn core jazz repertoire, covering essential skills like improvisation, jazz phrasing, rhythm section interplay, and listening across the ensemble. After working together as a large group, musicians will break out into smaller combos to apply what they’ve learned, giving everyone the chance to develop leadership, listening, and improvisational skills in a more intimate setting.

No prior jazz ensemble experience is necessary—just a basic proficiency on your instrument and a willingness to learn. By the end of the session, players will feel more comfortable reading charts, improvising solos, and playing as part of a jazz combo. This is a supportive, low-pressure environment where musicians of all backgrounds can explore the language of jazz together.