VYOAGrooves is a jazz program intended for students in grades 5 – 8 who have at least 1 year of experience on their instrument. All jazz experience levels are welcome. VYOAGrooves features big band and small ensemble “combo” components. Basic improvisation techniques are taught, but no previous experience with improvising is necessary. This is a program for everyone.
General Information
Conductor: David Kerr
Combo Instructor: Andy Smith
Manager: Juliette Chant
Tuition: $300, financial aid is available
Rehearsals: Mondays, 6–8pm at Elley-Long Music Center at St. Michael’s College
Fall, 2025 VYOAGrooves rehearsals are on the following Mondays:
September 8, 15, 22, 29
October 6, 20, 27 (No rehearsal October 13)
November 3 (Rehearsal and then concert at 7:30pm)
Skill expectations: Students should be able to play in keys with up to 2 sharps or 2 flats, and be comfortable reading rhythms that include sixteenth, eighth, quarter, half, and whole notes and their equivalent rests, including dotted rhythms. No audition is required for participation, simply register using the button below.
Registration
Please register no later than September 5, 2025. Contact Mark Alpízar at mark@vyo.org with any questions.
Financial Aid
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 with a combined household income up to $120,000 who wish to apply. You can find the 2025-26 online financial aid application here. Your most recent tax documents and a $50 deposit will need to accompany your application. Additional questions can be emailed to mark@vyo.org
