DISCOVER THE MUSIC
THE JAZZ APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM
1996 - 2011
THE TRADITION OF MENTORSHIP
We bridge the gap between jazz education and the professional world by uniting young musicians with iconic jazz artists in a challenging but inspirational mentorship environment. This experience allows young musicians to rise to the occasion of what it means to be a musician through the legacy of jazz apprenticeship.
"When students perform with their mentors, they are pushed to a higher level of musicianship"
Sarina Bachleitner; Director
Photo: Jazz@Lincoln Center 2011
WORKSHOPS
The Jazz Apprenticeship Program offers courses in improvisation, jazz harmony, ensembles and a common session where students perform with their mentors.
A variety of courses range from amateur to professional levels and are designed to provide a strong academic structure while developing the artistic awareness of being a jazz musician.
HIGHLIGHTS
The heart and soul of the Jazz Apprenticeship Program is the “Common Session” which has become the focal point of the curriculum. Similar to the “Celebrity Night” jam sessions that occurred at Minton’s Playhouse in the 40s and 50s, the new generation of talent perform with the experienced generation of musician’s in an intensely challenging environment. The concept of “learning on the bandstand” is the old-school approach that our program values as a continued tradition.
IMPROVISATION
Students learn various methods of improvisation through transcription, harmonic analysis, genres, icons and various innovative concepts.
ENSEMBLES
Large and small ensembles are coached by a mentor with emphasis on the stylistic and interactive aspects of the jazz language
COMMON SESSIONS
Advanced level students rehearse and perform with iconic professionals in an intensely challenging environment
OUR MENTORS
JOHN STUBBLEFIELD 1945-2005
The importance of Jazz Mentorship was inspired by the life-time relationship between Ms. Bachleitner and renown jazz musician John Stubblefield, who was pivotal to the success of her career. Mr. Stubblefield was a notable jazz educator and composer who performed with icons such as Miles Davis, Freddie Hubbard, McCoy Tyner, Gil Evans and the Mingus Dynasty Band. Mr. Stubblefield was a long-time mentor in the Jazz Apprenticeship Program.