Download the 2009 Jazz brochure here

Conservatory Dates
June 22- July 1, 2009 (one and a half weeks)
Please see the Concert Info page for performance dates.

Daily Hours
8:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Tuition
$475 (scholarships are available)

Areas of Study
Saxophone (all ranges), trumpet, tenor trombone, bass trombone, string & electric bass, piano, drums/trap set, guitar

Ages
Graduating 8th - graduating 12th grades

Department Description
AFA’s Intensive Jazz Workshop offers performance opportunities in large and small ensembles, courses in jazz theory and history, instruction in arranging, composing and improvisation as well as master classes on all instruments. Students study and rehearse a wide range of jazz literature and a broad diversity of jazz styles. The program culminates with performances at venues around the city.

Big Band
Big Band focuses on classic works from the Big Band and Swing eras as well as on new works by contemporary composers. While the big band is comprised primarily of jazz instruments, the group may also include non-traditional and/or orchestral instruments including orchestral strings and woodwinds. Working in a large ensemble context, students gain valuable experience as part of a large group.

Combo Class
Combo class focuses on small group performance, learning songs by ear, transcribing solos of influential jazz artists and practicing the interaction between rhythm section and soloists. Combos are coached by assigned faculty members and focus on performance of repertory designed for smaller groups, helping students develop important group, solo and improvisational skills in this context. Combo classes emphasize teamwork, active listening skills, communication skills and leadership as students work together to perform in more of an individual context. Selected students also have an opportunity to develop their abilities as soloists, and all groups perform on a concert.

Studio and Master Classes
AFA Jazz students participate in daily Studio Classes for their instrument led by internationally-known faculty members that focus on a variety of subjects special to each instrument. Faculty Master Classes will focus on faculty demonstration and performances, giving Jazz students an intimate and rare look at the interaction and processes involved in a professional jazz performance career. Click here to view Faculty biographies.