Tentative Schedule:

8:00am - 3:00pm - School Performances

Bands will have an opportunity to perform a 30 minute set in the recital hall for a panel of adjudicators who would give audio comments for the band. One of those adjudicators will go with the band to the ballroom for a 30 minute one on one clinic. Schools are welcome to watch other bands perform throughout the day!

3:00pm - 4:00pm - Jam Session/Listening Session

Students will have the choice between a large group jam session where they can learn new tunes, play with students from other schools and hone their improvisation skills, and a listening sessions where they will be introduced to different artists and genres that will give them ideas and models for their own jazz playing.

4:00pm - 5:00pm - Small Group Session

Students will be able to go with three different groups for more individualized learning. A beginning improvisation group will talk about improvisation fundamental skills, an advanced improvisation group will take on more challenging and specific improvisation concepts, and a rhythm section group will talk about how to play as a rhythm section and specific skills and problems.

5:00pm - 6:00pm - Dennis Mackrel Masterclass

Everybody will meet in the recital hall and for a large group masterclass with Dennis Mackrel. Topics may range from big band playing and conducting, to life as a professional musician and much more! Bring your questions are curiosities and learn from a master.

6:00pm - 7:00pm - Dinner (provided)

7:00pm - 8:00pm - Evening Concert

Enjoy an open to the public performance of Dennis Mackrel with UVM faculty and JEV adjudicators. This is a great opportunity to hear a live example of the ideas and concepts shared throughout the day. Feel free to bring any parents, community members or supporters with you.

Check out a video from last year’s concert with Michael Dease!