Third Street’s three jazz ensembles provide the opportunity for students to develop their jazz improvisation and style. Each ensemble and small combo develop traditional and self-composed repertoire as well as personal improvisation and theory. Jazz ensembles have the opportunity to perform at concerts and special events around the community.         

New students or students with prior playing experience will have the opportunity to audition for placement into the ensemble that best supports their current skill level

Jazz Band Prep

Beginner Level, 1 – 2 years of experience
Jazz Band Prep introduces students to the exciting world of jazz performance. Students discover and learn basic jazz concepts, including performance techniques, improvisation, ear training and basic music theory. Students should be enrolled in individual or group instruction, or have at least two years of experience in playing their instrument. Instruments include woodwinds, brass, percussion, guitar and bass.

Jazz Big Band

Intermediate Level, 2 – 5 years of experience
Jazz Band provides a deeper study and performance of jazz. With an emphasis on improvisation, Jazz Band students are exposed to new techniques, improvisation, ear training and jazz music theory. Students should be enrolled in individual or group instruction, or have at least two years of experience in playing their instrument. Instruments include woodwinds, brass, percussion, voice, guitar and bass.

Jazz Combo

More than 3 years of experience required
Jazz Combos are for intermediate to advanced students who are interested in taking their jazz studies a step further and learning how to improvise in a live setting with other musicians. Jazz Piano instructor Neal Kirkwood leads these small ensembles dedicated to the loose, flowing forms of jazz.

Looking for our adult jazz programs?  Click here for our adult offerings!

Need some guidance on your next step? Contact us by form,  email us or call Student Services at 212.777.3240, x17.  We look forward to hearing from you.