CCJA's core program groups students from all over the metro area in small (7-9 piece) jazz ensembles*, who are directed by professional musician mentors. These mentors are all accomplished professional musicians, who have a wealth of real experience to share with students. These ensembles meet weekly (in 3 ten-week sessions) to rehearse, play, and perform together as they study jazz improvisation, technique, style, theory, and history. Students are also given opportunities to compose and arrange for their groups.

For some students, the program serves as a tool for exploring jazz as a college major and/or a career path. For others, it is a great way to connect and play with other students who have an interest in the music. For everyone, it is a path to further self-expression through music. Over the past eight years, the program has attracted amazing young players who have become integral players in their respective school groups, members of All-State Jazz Band, and recipients of impressive scholarships to major music programs across the country. Students have also connected with other players through CCJA and have formed working bands.
 

* CCJA also has a special 12-piece Latin Jazz Ensemble (one of the only ones in the region for teens!) In the Winter and Spring, there is also an audition only CCJA Big Band that performs at local festivals.
 
 
Logistics:

The School Year Program is broken into three 10 week sessions:

Fall 2010 Session
Denver,Highlands Ranch & Fort Collins: Tuesdays, September 7- November 2; November 8 & 9 concerts

CU-Boulder: Mondays,  Aug. 30 - Nov.1 w/ no rehearsal on Sept. 6; November 8 & 9 concerts

Winter 2010-11 Session
Denver, Highlands Ranch & Fort Collins: Nov. 16 - Dec 14, and Jan. 4 - Jan. 25; February 1 & 2 concerts
CU Boulder: Mondays,  Nov 15 - Dec 13; Jan 3 - 24; February 1 & 2 concerts

Spring 2011 Session:

Denver, Highlands Ranch & Fort Collins: Tuesdays, Feb 15 - April 19 (with one week off for Spring Break, dates vary by group),  April 20 concert
CU Boulder: Mondays,  Feb 14 - April 18; (no rehearsal on 3/21 for Springs Break);  April 20 concert

Groups meet at four different locations:

    - University of Denver, Newman Center for the Performing Arts

     Tuesday evenings from 7-9

   - Summit View Elementary in Highlands Ranch

     Tuesday evenings from 6:30 - 8:30

   - CU - Boulder Macky Auditorium Building

     Monday evenings from 7-9

   -First United Methodist Church in Fort Collins

     Tuesdays from 6:45-8:45

Concerts are held at local jazz venues during the last week of each session.

Tuition for each 10 week session is $300, or two payments of $150. We offer other some need-based scholarships, so please let us know if you are interested in applying for one.
 
 
At this time we welcome musicians from the ages of 12-18, who have been playing their instrument for at least two years and have some experience playing jazz. If you are interested in applying for the program,click here for an application form. There is a one-time $15 registration fee that can be mailed or paid online. Upon acceptance you will receive a registration confirmation. Sometimes there are waiting lists for certain instruments, and auditions are then held. Questions? Call Paul Romaine at 720-201-6885.