The Jazz Academy is The Shedd Institute’s professional performance training program for secondary school students who really want to perform and understand what it takes to become a practicing jazz musician. Students learn jazz standards, theory, technique, improvisation, professionalism, and combo and solo playing. Emphasis is placed on repertoire from the American Songbook – the core of popular song from the 1920s-50s that constitutes the repertoire base of standards-based jazz, a key component of the professional jazz musician’s toolkit.
Throughout the year the groups will have a variety of public performances and periodic opportunities for special clinics and classes. The Jazz Academy also includes free or low-cost access to Shedd jazz concerts, and special workshops.
Jazz Academy III is designed for advanced students of jazz with extensive experience with their instrument. Placement is at the Jazz Academy Director’s discretion, based on prior experience with a student or placement audition.