CLAIM YOUR SPOT
Spots are filling up! Registration for some instruments may close early based on interest, so register soon!
Fuel Your Summer With Jazz
Join us for one week, two weeks, or three weeks of high-quality instrumental jazz education at our summer workshops. Students will learn alongside their peers in a friendly, supportive environment designed to build musicianship and confidence. If you’re a student in grades 7–12 who loves playing your instrument, this is the place to be this summer!
Our teaching artists are some of the top jazz performers and educators in the Columbus area. Each week, they will lead ensemble rehearsals, instrument-specific masterclasses, improvisation workshops, and more. Every Friday of this program concludes with a public performance by all student groups.
Workshop Schedule
Each workshop is Monday through Friday from 12–3 p.m.
- Week 1: June 8–12, 2026
- Week 2: June 22–26, 2026
- Week 3: July 13–17, 2026
Tuition is $150 per week. To be considered for a scholarship, please complete the application.
Summer Workshop Details
About
- This workshop is open to students who have completed grades 6–12 and have at least one year of experience on their instrument.
- Enrollment for each instrument is limited, and spots are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. If interest is high, registration for some instruments may close early, so be sure to register soon!
- Scholarships are awarded to students in need on a first-come, first-served basis. To be considered for a scholarship, please complete a scholarship application.
Learning Itinerary
Every session of the Columbus Youth Jazz Summer Workshop will explore new jazz musicians, songs, and styles. Because each session covers different material, students are encouraged to register for as many weeks as they would like. Topics covered during the week include:
- Learning a tune by ear
- Reading a lead sheet
- Improvisation
- Technique on your specific instrument
- Musical collaboration within small-group playing
- Writing original tunes and arrangements
- Learning about jazz musicians, standards, and styles
Optional Placement Audition Video
As part of the registration form, students are encouraged to submit a link (Google Drive, unlisted YouTube video, etc.) of themselves playing a tune of their choice. Improvisation is encouraged but not mandatory. While our summer workshops are not auditioned-based, your video will help us place you in an ensemble with students of your same experience level.
Upcoming Workshops
CYJ Summer Workshop 2026 Week 1
CYJ Summer Workshop 2026 Week 2
CYJ Summer Workshop 2026 Week 3
Register Today
Register for your preferred week(s) or complete an application to be considered for a scholarship.
Have Questions?
Contact our Education team for answers to any questions you may have regarding CYJ Summer Workshops – youthjazz@columbusjazz.org.