CURRENT STUDENTS: The main educational and ensemble program for area music students in grades 8-12 is concluded until November 2025 (when auditions take place) and December 2025 (when rehearsals resume). But in the meantime, check out our first-ever summer instructional offering: the VJC Summer Youth Camp — Jazz Writing Skills, focusing on jazz composition & arranging, slated for June 23–27, 10 AM to 3 PM each day. (Offered free of charge to VJC program participants and alums! Also, the enrollment fee for non-VJCers is very modest!)
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PROGRAM ALUMS: In addition to the Jazz Camp mentioned above (offered free of charge to alums, too), we look forward to presenting the VJC Alumni Band concert on Saturday, June 28th @ 7:00 p.m. in Ravenscroft Hall. If you aren't playing on it, still come out to hear it, reconnect with some old friends, and make some new ones!
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FRIENDS & FANS: While the main program has concluded, the VJC Alumni Band is still to come, with a concert in Ravenscroft Hall on Saturday, June 28th @ 7:00 p.m. Learn more about that show—and purchase tickets—HERE.
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​​EDUCATORS: Check out the Flexible Instrumentation Big Band charts from VJC Publications. And hear this great new music on our YouTube channel. VJC Publications offers flex. charts that don't compromise. ​Please note that 100% of every VJC Publication purchase goes back into supporting the educational activities of the Valley Jazz Cooperative.
LESSONS AND WORKSHOPS
Lessons
Valley Jazz Cooperative faculty are available to offer private lessons to individual students. Our experienced team of artist-teachers can help music students achieve even greater success in their development. VJC teachers strive to meet each person at their current level of mastery and will tailor one-on-one sessions to address the needs of each individual.
For young musicians eager to work with a private teacher whose primary instrument is not found in the VJC faculty line-up, we can provide recommendations for other outstanding instructors who can meet those students’ needs. Please contact Russell Schmidt for more information about private lessons.
Workshops
In addition to lessons, the Valley Jazz Cooperative is available to support the efforts of jazz band directors and their high school programs through workshops and clinics. Members of our team can work with your groups on various topics including improvisation, stylistic performance practices (i.e., ensemble phrasing and articulation), rhythm section techniques, and other subjects. Our goal is to support your educational efforts with these students, to assist you through the presentation of additional jazz instruction.
Getting help and support from outside sources can be tremendous asset. Given the Valley Jazz Cooperative’s deep connection to Music Serving the Word, teachers can rest assured that any rehearsal critique or workshop comment will be offered with a generous and respectful spirit, appreciating the substantial work done by student and teacher alike prior to the VJC’s arrival in your band room. Please contact the Director of the Valley Jazz Cooperative, Russell Schmidt to explore possible workshop and clinic opportunities.
