This summer, we hosted our annual Jazz Workshop, led by Danny Janklow and assisted by PCM alum, Daniel Lazzaretto. As Danny put it, this workshop is “really kind of a unique program in that way that we get to cover a lot of ground.” This is exactly what the students experienced: a deep dive into the world of jazz.

Over the two weeks, students covered all aspects of jazz through rehearsing arrangements, improvisation, music theory, history lessons, and a final performance. The program doesn’t just teach you how to play jazz, but how to understand it and make it your own.

Milan, one of the students, shared, “I love the camp a lot because it covered a lot of diverse topics, like music theory and rhythm, and it covered a lot of pieces for our repertoire and improvisation.” 

Sawyer, another student, echoed this sentiment by appreciating the program’s hands-on nature: “I like the program because they sit you down and we do multiple things, like drum circles or something outside of playing music, instead of just putting sheet music in front of you and playing it. We also had a hand in choosing some of the songs if we thought it’d be cool after learning about their history.” 

Similarly, Emilio, who traveled from Bakersfield to join, added, “I like this program a lot because we do lots of pieces and you can make up your own style,” regarding making their own arrangements.

This year’s jazz workshop welcomed seven students coming from different backgrounds. One of them had never played jazz before, and another came from Bakersfield to join the program. However, as they met every day for 2 weeks, they built their own community through music, which shone as they played. Together, they arranged and played multiple tunes like “Caravan” and “St. Thomas.” However, they all unanimously agreed that their arrangement of “Peace” going into “Song for My Father” was their favorite.

See below for an interview with Danny Janklow about the program:

This interview was conducted on June 18, 2025.

What do you think is the biggest advantage of joining this program? 

I think the most valuable part is putting anything that you’re learning in lessons, in context. I would say you’re not just getting experience playing your instrument, but you’re getting experience using your ears in an ensemble, learning how to play rhythmically, learning your specific role in the music, and also, there’s a social element that is really important.” 

What are some highlights so far, and something you are looking forward to in the program? 

I’m definitely excited for them to play this concert. I think one of the highlights for me, so far, has been seeing them get excited over the arrangements, and when it comes together, like, for instance, when the arrangement for “Song for My Father” came together, that was exciting for them. Also, another highlight was seeing some of the interest that they have in the history of jazz. Yesterday, we studied Thelonius Monk, and it was cool for them to ask questions about the idiosyncrasies of Thelonius Monk, why he does this, and why he plays like that. It was just cool to see the curiosity about the historical legendary musicians that I have loved throughout my life, and sharing that with them.

Any advice for students who are getting into jazz or want to join jazz ensembles or lessons in PCM? 

I would say my advice is to join. Take private lessons and join ensembles because really, you’re going to get information that’s pivotal to your growth in both private lessons and in ensembles, and things that you wouldn’t be able to get in one, you’re going to get in the other. 

Are you or anyone you know interested in learning more about PCM’s Jazz Department, taking lessons with our esteemed faculty members, or joining a youth or adult combo? Please don’t hesitate to reach out, and we hope to see you on campus soon!