Jazz Overview
The World Jazz Studies program at LVA is committed to inspiring creative minds in the field of Jazz, America’s true art form. Students undergo a rigorous audition process to be admitted into LVA and to be placed into the appropriate band. Students are exposed to world-class jazz artists such as Carl Allen, Louie Bellson, Randy Brecker, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Ndugu Chancler, Jimmy Cobb, Steve Davis, Justin DiCioccio, Peter Erskine, Joel Frahm, George Garzone, Jeff Hamilton, Clint Holmes, Bob Mintzer, Chris Potter, Nat Reeves, Marlena Shaw, Mike Tomaro, and many more.
Program Curriculum
LVA Jazz Students undergo a rigorous audition process in order to be placed into appropriate ensembles. The World Jazz Studies program has three big bands for Jazz majors and minors. Additionally, there is an elective Jazz Band class for non-jazz majors/minors as well as elective classes in Advanced Instrumental Studies (combos) and Percussion. Our students perform at community events throughout the year and are highly sought after to perform at private events. They also work regularly with professional musicians brought in from across the country.
Program Outcome
Students in the LVA Jazz Program not only improve their musicianship but also learn valuable life lessons. This rigorous program teaches students how to develop time-management skills, the professionalism required to make it in any chosen field, and the importance of a strong work ethic and positive attitude. Upon graduation, students are prepared for admission into any university, arts conservatory, or other career programs.
Program Accolades
LVA Jazz is one of the nation’s premier high school jazz programs, boasting 26 DownBeat Awards and 13 appearances as a finalist at the Monterey Next Generation Jazz Festival. Most recently, they won the Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival Sweepstakes Competition. The ensemble has been featured four times at The Midwest Clinic International Band and Orchestra Conference and has performed multiple times at the prestigious Monterey Jazz Festival. LVA Jazz students have earned national recognition with four YoungArts winners and several members selected for the NAfME All-National Honor Ensembles. At the Reno Jazz Festival, LVA Jazz has consistently earned “Best in State” at every appearance. Students in the World Jazz Studies program have also traveled widely to share their music, with recent performances in Idaho, New Orleans, Buffalo, New York City, Chicago, Monterey, and Austria.
