Unmatchable in the Chicago area, Midwest Young Artists’ C. Louis Meyer Family Foundation Jazz Program provides students with the most comprehensive instruction citywide. Consisting of three big bands, six combos, and classes in jazz theory and history, MYA jazz students have the opportunity to perform with internationally acclaimed guest artists in premier jazz and concert venues throughout Chicago and beyond. The MYA Jazz Program has been featured on Harry Porterfield’s Someone You Should Know series and on CBS 2.

Jazz Program Offerings

For students who love jazz and the precision of nailing big band charts. Students will master multiple jazz styles while improving sight-reading, counting, phrasing, and intonation. MYA Big Band, Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Orchestra placement is based on musical and technical ability. An audition is required for entry.

Big Band, Chris Madsen, Conductor

For developing jazz musicians primarily in grades 11 and 12 who are ready to sink their teeth into the most demanding repertoire.

Big Band rehearsals: Sunday, 5:30 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. (The first half hour of the rehearsal is the required theory class)

Audition for Big Band

Jazz Orchestra, Chris Madsen, Conductor

For developing jazz musicians, mostly in high school, who are ready for a more challenging ensemble experience.

Jazz Orchestra rehearsals: Sunday, 3:00 P.M. to 5:30 P.M. (The first half hour of the rehearsal is the required theory class)

Audition for Jazz Orchestra

Jazz Ensemble, Jarrard Harris, Conductor

For younger jazz musicians eager to learn jazz phrasing, articulation and ensemble skills.

Jazz Ensemble rehearsals: Sunday, 12:30 P.M. to 3:00 P.M. (The first half hour of the rehearsal is the required theory class)

Audition for Jazz Ensemble

Jazz Combos, Jarrard Harris, Director

For students who want to learn the art of improvisation and build skills to take them to the highest levels of solo expression. Students are placed in small combos based on ability and age. Combo students are encouraged to participate in one of MYA’s Big Bands.

Jazz Combo Rehearsals: Students are placed in a combo which meets on Sundays or Tuesday evenings.

Audition for Jazz Combos

Theory, Jarrard Harris, Director

Jazz Theory and History Classes, Free to MYA Jazz Students. Explore the history of jazz music while gaining a deeper understanding of music theory and ear training as it relates to jazz improvisation. The theory classes are an integral and important extension of the ensemble rehearsals. Participation in these classes is required for all members of Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Orchestra, and Big Band (students may be excused from Theory participation at the discretion of the director).

Theory I class meets Sundays at 12:30 p.m. for Jazz Ensemble students – Jarrard Harris, Instructor

Theory II class meets Sundays at 3:00 p.m. for Jazz Orchestra students – Chris Madsen, Instructor 

Jazz Listening, Composition and Arranging meets at 5:30 p.m. on Sundays for Big Band students – Chris Madsen, Instructor 

Jazz Program

SEARCH
CONTACT US
SUBSCRIBE