We’re one of the few brick-and-mortar schools in the nation where jazz education is a flagship program—offered alongside our Foundation and Conservatory tracks—giving students of all ages, levels, and goals the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.

According to the United States Congress, among other things, "Jazz makes evident to the world an outstanding artistic model of individual expression and democratic cooperation within the creative process, thus fulfilling the highest ideals and aspirations of our republic."

By participating in our programs, students are exposed to collegiality on the bandstand, learn the historical significance of jazz as an art form, get exposure to complex music theory concepts through performance of engaging arrangements, and start developing a strong lyrical voice by performing in front of a live audience.

Great question! The College Music Society has identified improvisation as one of the three core pillars for 21st-century music education. That’s why we integrate jazz—not just as a genre, but as a way of thinking—into all levels of our programming. From 3-year-olds starting piano in our Foundations Music School, to advancing students in private Conservatory lessons, all paths lead to opportunities within our Jazz Academy. It’s a space where students of all disciplines can come together for unique group classes and real-life performance experiences that foster creativity, confidence, and collaboration.

Throughout the Academic year students are offered performance opportunities such as Recitals, Juries, and Group Class performances along the faculty in and around South Orange County.