jazz intensive

Overview

Experience the thrill of learning jazz music this summer with our Jazz Intensive! During the program, students will receive daily instruction in jazz theory, improvisation, ensemble playing, and performance techniques. The Jazz Intensive is led by the director of HYS Jazz, Dean Taba, and Seattle-based saxophonist Steve Treseler. Other faculty include notable session musicians and local legends who will provide guidance and mentorship throughout the program.

The daily Jam Session is an activity open to all participating Jazz Intensive students from either band. Students can practice leading a jam session as well as improvising together on various jazz standards or songs being learned in either Jazz Intensive ensemble.

No jazz experience required! Students will be placed in either Jazz 1 (Intermediate/Advanced) or Jazz 2 (Beginning) based on level of experience and instrumentation needs. 

Eligibility Requirements
  • Eligible instruments: saxophones, trumpet, trombone, piano, guitar, bass guitar, drum set.
  • Students entering 8th grade up until 1st year college. 19 and under.
  • Ideal candidates have at least 2 years of experience on their instrument.
  • Students CAN participate in both Jazz 2 (Beginning) and the Winds, Brass, and Percussion Program.
  • Students CANNOT participate in both Jazz 1 (Intermediate/Advanced) and the Winds, Brass, and Percussion Program.
  • Ensemble size may be limited to ensure a balanced instrumentation.
Faculty
July 6-14, 2024

At McKinley High School

*Out-of-state students, please book travel outside of July 6-14, 2024 for full participation

Schedule:

July 6, 7 from 9:00am-3:30pm Rehearsals and sectionals

July 8-13

  • 1:30pm-3:00pm Jazz 2 (Beginning)
  • 3:15pm-4:15pm Jam Session (Optional, Jazz 1 & 2)
  • 4:30pm-6:00pm Jazz 1 (Intermediate/Advanced)

July 14 at 1:00pm Jazz Intensive and Freestyle String Ensemble Concert

Jazz Intensive

$ 260
  • Learn how to improvise solos
  • Individualized instruction
  • Fun and safe learning environment
Audition Requirements

Improvising a solo to a play-along track or live musicians. 5 minute maximum. 

If you are not able to improvise, then an etude or excerpt of your choice may be submitted. Winds, Brass, and Percussion Program excerpts are acceptable.

Students who opt to not send a placement video will be assigned to Jazz 2.

Option#1: Improvising a solo to a play-along track or live musicians. Make sure backing track is audible.

Blues by Five (Concert Key treble clef)

Blues by Five (for Bb instruments)

Blues by Five (for Eb instruments)

Blues by Five (Concert Key bass clef)

Rhythm Backing Track

Backing Track (no bass)

Backing Track (no piano)

Backing Track (no drums)

Option#2: If you are not able to improvise, then an etude or excerpt of your choice may be submitted. Wind Ensemble excerpts are acceptable.

Option#3: Students who opt to not send a placement video will be assigned to Jazz 2.

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After registering, you will receive a placement video submission link. The purpose of the placement video is to help us determine which ensemble is the best fit for you. When recording, please make sure your face and instrument is clearly visible. High fidelity audio/video quality is not necessary.  While this is NOT an audition, students may not be accepted if they don’t meet the general performance expectations.