Overview

VYOAJazz offers a focused, audition-based experience, led by Kyle Saulnier and a team of professional jazz faculty. Musicians are placed in combos and larger bands tailored to their level, where they explore diverse jazz traditions, sharpen improvisation skills, and collaborate closely with peers who share their passion.

Auditions

Auditions for new and current musicians will be held in September at Elley-Long Music Center. Audition requirements will be posted soon. For more information, reach out to ensemble manager Juliett Chant.

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Schedule

Rehearsals (2026-2027)

  • Saturdays 10:00am – 1:00pm at the Elley-Long Music Center

Concerts

VYOA Jazz performs at least two concerts each year, in the fall and the spring. Additional performing opportunities may be scheduled based on availability.

Attendance Policy

The VYOA believes that full participation by all members of each ensemble leads to greater success and better camaraderie!  Musicians are allowed two rehearsal absences per concert cycle for illness or an unavoidable schedule conflict. If musicians must miss more than two rehearsals, they will be asked to meet with the conductor as a check-in to make sure they are progressing sufficiently.

Skills Expectations

Acceptance into VYOA Jazz is by audition. Audition materials for September 2026 will be updated at a later time. You are likely ready for an audition if you:

  • Have a strong control of your instrument from top-to-bottom
  • Are able to confidently hold your own with written material in an ensemble
  • Are able to sight-read reasonably well
  • Have a working knowledge of and/or aptitude for basic (key-based, diatonic) music theory
  • Have experience playing and improvising in a jazz style

Tuition & Financial Aid

2026-2027 VYOAJazz Tuition: $1,000

Annual tuition fees for participation in the VYOA vary. Please note that tuition is non-refundable after the first rehearsal.

Financial Aid

The VYOA is committed to ensuring that no child is discouraged from participating due to financial circumstances. Need-based financial aid is available to all qualifying families demonstrating an adjusted gross income up to $120,000.

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Questions

Contact Juliette Chant with any questions about registration.

VYOA Jazz is an elite training ground for jazz ensembles built on authenticity, professionalism, and most importantly, fun. Students play side-by-side with their mentors, absorbing the feel and nuance of the music that simply can’t be explained. Though it’s fast-paced and intense, the most important element of the program is the people: Jazz is a community music that represents the musicians that make it, and nothing honors the music more than the fun we have in putting it together.

– Kyle Saulnier, Conductor