MusicLee Secard, Director
The Jazz Program is open to instrumental music students of all levels. Private instruction on individual instruments is available, as well as ensembles and classes in improvisation.
The School has several instrumental ensembles devoted to the performance of jazz repertoire, the study of the art of improvisation, and the development of the student’s musical concepts, improvisations, and compositions. These ensembles are the Saturday 2:15 Band, the Saturday Noon Band, the Sunday 1:00 Band, the Monday Night Band and, during the summer session, the Summer Big Band.
All instruments (including stringed instruments) are welcome in these ensembles. Groups perform and record each term; rehearsal and performance attendance is mandatory. Performance events include concerts in Zipper Hall, recital appearances in Mayman Hall, afternoon concerts on the plaza, elementary school concerts, and clinics featuring guest artists. Past clinicians include Wynton Marsalis, Eric Reed, Joe LaBarbera, Reggie Thomas, and John Clayton.
Students interested in jazz studies should contact Mr. Lee Secard. Mr. Secard will be able to provide information and guidance on the most appropriate enrollment for the student.
- Kalaf, Jerry (Drums, Percussion)
- Kinnon, Liz (Jazz Piano)
- Secard, Lee (Director, Saxophone, Jazz Ensembles)
- Youngstrom, Kenton (Guitar; Commercial Guitar, Group and Private Lessons, Guitar Ensembles)
Interview: Required
This ensemble is designed for students of intermediate instrumental ability who wish to develop the fundamental jazz skills needed for the art of swinging group improvisation. Students begin the process of learning jazz repertoire as they develop their skills. The group is open to drums and instruments using the chromatic scale; average age is within grades 7 through 9.
Interview: Required
The Saturday 1:00 Band consists of students with more experience in jazz studies. Students continue to expand their knowledge of jazz repertoire, harmony, and improvisation. The average age of the group is usually within grades 9 through 12.
Audition: Required
This ensemble consists of high school and adult musicians who are proficient on their instruments and experienced in jazz studies. The group learns widely varied pieces, usually suggested by band members. The study of harmony and learning accurately by ear are essential goals of the ensemble, along with learning to swing in sophisticated jazz repertoire.
Audition: Required
The Monday Night Band is an advanced student group that performs standards and original compositions at a high level of proficiency. Membership consists of high school and college age students.
Audition: Required
Open to brass, woodwind, and rhythm musicians experienced in jazz performance, this ensemble plays original compositions and arrangements by students and noted jazz composers. Student writing is strongly encouraged, supported, and developed. Instrumentation usually includes guitar, piano/keyboard, bass, drums, percussion, saxophones, trombone, and trumpet. Contact Mr. Lee Secard at ext. 4763 for more information.
JBPI – jazz bass lessons
JFPI – jazz flute lessons
JRPI – jazz percussion lessons
JPPI – jazz piano lessons
JSPI – jazz saxophone lessons
… - other instruments may qualify for private instruction in jazz; see Mr. Secard
Duration: 30 minutes, 45 minutes, or 60 minutes, as determined by the instructor
Private instrumental instruction is offered for students who wish to pursue studies in jazz. Teacher assignment is based on the student’s level of proficiency and personal goals. Students interested in jazz piano should contact the CSPA Office; students interested in other instrumental jazz study should contact Mr. Lee Secard at ext. 4763.