VYOAGrooves is a jazz program intended for students in grades 5 – 8 who have at least 1 year of experience on their instrument. All jazz experience levels are welcome. VYOAGrooves will feature big band and small ensemble “combo” components. Basic improvisation techniques will be taught, but no previous experience with improvising is necessary. This is a program for everyone.
General Information
Conductor: David Kerr
Combo Instructor: Andy Smith
Manager: Juliette Chant
Tuition: $275, financial aid is available
Rehearsals: Mondays, 6–8pm at Elley-Long Music Center at St. Michael’s College
Spring, 2025 VYOAGrooves rehearsals are on the following Mondays:
February 10, 17. (24 off – winter break)
March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
April 7 – Rehearsal and Big Band concert at 7:30pm.
Sunday, April 13, 4pm rehearsal, 5pm Combo performances.
Skill expectations: Students should be able to play in keys with up to 2 sharps or 2 flats, and be comfortable reading rhythms that include sixteenth, eighth, quarter, half, and whole notes and their equivalent rests, including dotted rhythms. No audition is required for participation, simply register using the button below.
Registration
Please register no later than January 31, 2025. Contact Mark Alpízar at mark@vyo.org with any questions.
