(Jeff Clayton works with a combo at Jazz Port Townsend 2011. Photo by Jim Levitt)
Whether you’re a journeyman performer, aspiring professional, or an enthusiastic beginner, the week long workshop at Jazz Port Townsend, July 22-29, 2012, is the perfect opportunity to meet other excellent musicians, soak up a week of jazz in a seaside paradise, and leave as a better musician.
Artistic Director John Clayton has hand picked faculty who are outstanding both as performers and teachers. They’ll inspire you with their playing, and then work with you directly to develop your own skills.
You’ll receive focused instruction as you rehearse daily in combos or vocal classes. Jazz Theory sessions provide valuable information for increasing your skills as an improviser. Master classes are conducted each day by faculty members who cover topics specific to their chosen instruments. “Faculty Presents” concerts each afternoon give you a chance to hear performances in an intimate setting. The workshop culminates in a series of “Students Present” concerts in which all participants have an opportunity to perform.
Applicants must have good technical command of their instrument or voice, as well as elementary improvisation experience or a basic knowledge of music theory. Differing levels of experience are expected, and every effort is made to match players of similar abilities. An audition is required.
Read more about audition requirements HERE.
Applicants apply at one of three levels: Beginner/Intermediate, Advanced, or Semi-Pro. Semi-pro players have the option of applying for special themed combos, focusing on specific styles (details in the audition instructions). All participants receive daily instruction from our outstanding artist faculty.
RETURING IN 2012 is our composer/arranger track featuring NEA Jazz Master Johnny Mandel. Check out the video below from the NEA, chronicling the life and work of this legendary artist, five-time Grammy Award winner, and winner of the Oscar in 1965 for "Best Song" for, "The Shadow of Your Smile," from the movie, "Sandpiper." Applicants accepted to this track will work in a small group seminar setting with Johnny, as well as playing in a lab combo together.
Stay tuned to the Jazz Port Townsend page, or, for more information, call or email Jazz Program Manager Gregg Miller at gmiller@centrum.org, or 360.385.3102 x109.
