Departments

Jazz

Five students playing jazz instruments (guitar, bass, trumpet, clarinet, saxophone)

Jazz

Students enrolled in the Jazz Studies Department learn traditional jazz repertoire, develop improvisational skills, and the ability to perform as soloists and accompanists. A core concept of the curriculum is that keen aural perception is fundamental to mastering the subtleties of jazz and developing excellent musicianship.

In addition to individual instruction, students are strongly encouraged to participate in an ensemble, so that they may apply the skills learned in lessons and master classes to actual performance.

A two-week intensive jazz class is offered in the summer for older children and teenagers who want to continue or begin jazz studies while school is not in session.

Meet Our Jazz Faculty

2025-2026 Youth Courses

August 26, 2025 – May 29, 2026
Tuesdays 6:00 – 7:00 pm or Fridays 4:00 – 5:00 pm
Instructors: Danny Janklow and Aaron Janik
Tuition: Contact us for prorated tuition information

Register here

Students participate in jazz combos consisting of rhythm sections (i.e. piano, guitar, drum set, and percussion) and various wind instruments. Literature for each group includes an assortment of standard jazz repertoire as well as arrangements and original compositions.

Age 12+. Students of all instruments may enroll. At least two years of previous instrumental study required.

2025-2026 Adult Courses

November 19, 2025 – February 28, 2026
Mondays 2:00 – 3:30 pm
OR Wednesdays 7:00 – 8:30 pm
OR Thursdays 7:00 – 8:30 pm
OR Saturdays: 11:00 am – 12:30 pm
Instructor: Sherry Luchette
Tuition: $504

Students learn to play jazz and blues standards in an ensemble setting. Through guided listening, students learn about melody, arrangements, chords, scales, and improvisation.

Please contact the office to enroll: music@pasadenaconservatory.org or 626-683-3355.

November 24, 2025 – February 23, 2026
Mondays 1:00 – 2:00 pm
Instructor: Sherry Luchette
Tuition: $180

Register here

The Adult Studies Jazz Theory class is for beginner to intermediate ability levels. This class includes ear training drills on music intervals, triads, and 7th chords. Students study lesson topics from Shelly Berg’s “Essentials of Jazz Theory,” including various scales, chord patterns, and soloing exercises that can be directly applied to jazz standards. Students bring their instruments (pianos provided) and are given weekly practice assignments in line with their experience level.

Visit the Fees page for more information about tuition and registration fees.

Let's make some music!
Find out how to enroll