The Jazz Vegas Orchestra drew a record audience at its Centennial Hills concert

Jam with Jazz Outreach Initiative Over the Summer

By Debbie Hall
Photography courtesy of Jazz Outreach Initiative

“JOI’s many youth programs play a central role not just in developing fine musicians but also fine human beings. Jazz uniquely teaches collaboration, listening skills, tolerance, democracy, following as well as leading, and many more life skills necessary for a thriving community.” —Gary Cordell, co-founder, vice president of education and programming

Young musicians can have a summer filled with opportunities to express themselves, build confidence and learn new skills. Through its expanded free summer jazz programs, the Jazz Outreach Initiative (JOI) is providing creative access points for all interested participants.

As part of its annual “Jammin’ with JOI” program, JOI will offer two locations for students to jam this summer, thanks to support from the Nevada Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts. A newly added Monday session in North Las Vegas begins an additional weekly offering. All skill levels are welcome throughout each 10-week session.

“Jammin’ with JOI” summer camp

Registration is not required, and attendance is flexible. Students are encouraged to attend as often as they like and may bring friends who play in their school band; those students are welcome to participate as well. JOI’s professional musicians and mentors guide participants in learning jazz language, ensemble playing, improvisation techniques and musicianship in an environment designed to support growth at each student’s pace.

The program’s impact extends well beyond the summer months. Students who began with “Jammin’ with JOI” and later joined JOI’s Las Vegas Youth Jazz Orchestra and Combos have earned scholarships to prestigious institutions, including Juilliard, the Peabody Institute, the Eastman School of Music, the University of Michigan, the University of North Texas and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

“Jammin’ with JOI” summer camp with mentors Eddie Rich, Dave Loeb, John Abraham and Ben Bernstein

Every Saturday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. at Lucino’s Pizza (3035 E. Tropicana Ave.), students can continue developing as musicians through casual jam sessions. The gatherings give them opportunities to perform before a live audience and learn from professional musicians in a supportive, community-driven environment. The sessions regularly draw families, music lovers and community members.

“Jammin’ with JOI” jam sessions at Lucino’s Pizza

The Las Vegas Youth Jazz Orchestra will hold auditions for its sixth season on Sunday, Aug. 16. Unlike traditional auditions, every student who participates will be accepted and given the opportunity to perform during the season. The program provides structured instruction and performance opportunities at a time when many school music programs face funding challenges. Students also gain experience playing in professional studio settings throughout the year.

“Jammin’ with JOI” summer camp with John Abraham as he mentors a drum student

JOI maintains a strong commitment to jazz education. Its Jazz Vegas Orchestra performs at venues across Southern Nevada, including a recent City of Las Vegas “Jazz Under the Stars” concert that drew a record audience of more than 2,600 attendees.

For young musicians seeking inspiration, mentorship and a welcoming environment, JOI offers a range of opportunities. For more information, visit jazzoutreachinitiative.org and follow JOI on Facebook, Instagram and X.