Jazz

The Community School’s jazz program, known as the Colburn Jazz Workshop, is dedicated to encouraging students to explore the art of improvisation and ultimately even develop into composers, as well. Students can develop their skills through jazz music lessons, playing in an ensemble, or enrolling in a theory class.

Trombonist Elijah Alexander
Being in classes led by [Jazz Chair Lee Secard] has been one of the biggest impacts on my own personal growth. He has been one of my biggest supporters and a strong critic and has always pushed me in the right direction when I feel lost. Trombonist Elijah Alexander

Private Instruction in Jazz

Students can enroll in jazz private music lessons. If you’re interested in enrolling in lessons, please fill out our online inquiry form.

After submitting the inquiry form, the department chair will contact you to provide program details and discuss scheduling. In some cases, an interview and audition may be required to place the student with the appropriate teacher.

Jazz Classes and Ensembles

The Community School has several instrumental ensembles, including small combos and a Big Band, devoted to the performance of jazz repertoire and the development of the students’ musical concepts, improvisations, and compositions. All instruments are welcome to audition for these ensembles. For interested students, please submit an inquiry form.

Inquiry Form

Adult Jazz Workshops

Colburn’s Adult Jazz Workshops consist of musicians who are proficient on their instruments and experienced in jazz studies. Various styles of jazz repertoire are explored and learned aurally along with some discussion of jazz theory and approaches to improvisation. If you would like to join the Adult Jazz Workshop, please contact Liz Kinnon at ekinnon@colburnschool.edu.

Visit the ensembles page for more information about adult jazz groups.