Big Band Workshop
The NYJA Big Band Workshop program is open to intermediate, advanced, and professional level instrumentalists who are looking to play and work in a big band setting. NYJA Big Bands are not mere reading bands. The material is rigorously and artistically rehearsed and performed throughout the year. Participants include professionals who join to keep their chops up, hobbyists who used to play in big bands and want to return to the big band format, and talented players who are new to big band. Bands are leveled appropriately, and they meet once weekly.
How to audition and register
1. Contact us and let us know you are interested. Give us your name, phone, email, instrument, and tell us a little about your previous big band playing experience.
2. Download the sample audition material.
3. We will schedule an audition date for you.
4. Please note that there is a tuition requirement for this ensemble workshop. Review the tuition pricing below.
Can't make a regular commitment?
Come audition anyway. We will be continuing to expand big band workshop offerings, and we'd like to know about you.
Requirements for this workshop
1. Sight-reading ability a must.
2. A positive attitude toward music and musicians, and a desire to have fun!
3. Dedication to learning your parts.
4. A desire to take advice and accept direction.
Tuition
Tuition: $240 for 8 weeks. Your tuition goes toward NYJA instruction, room rental, materials, and more.
Financial Assistance
Partial scholarships are available for select instruments. Contact us for more information.
Manhattan Sessions:
Saturdays, 12:00 PM-1:50 PM
Big Band Workshop
Location: St. Peter's Church, E. 54th St. @ Lexington Ave.
Instructor: Webster, Michael Subject: Instrumental Level: All Levels
Tuition: $240.00 (8 weeks)
Saturdays, 2:00 PM-3:50 PM
Big Band Workshop
Location: St. Peter's Church, E. 54th St. @ Lexington Ave.
Instructor: Arau, Javier Subject: Instrumental Level: Int - Adv
Tuition: $240.00 (8 weeks)
Long Island Sessions:
Sundays, 7:20 PM-8:50 PM
Big Band Workshop
Instructor: Arau, Javier Subject: Instrumental Level: Int - Adv
Tuition: $240.00 (8 weeks)
Brooklyn Sessions:
Thursdays, 7:00 PM-8:50 PM
Big Band Improv Workshop
Instructor: Blankinship, Daniel Subject: Instrumental Level: All Levels
Tuition: $240.00 (8 weeks)
About NYJA Big Bands
Repertoire is similar to that of a very strong college big band, ranging from old-time classics to contemporary big band pieces. NYJA has exclusive access to large volumes of historic charts, including many out-of-print pieces. Featured arrangers and composers include Duke Ellington, Sammy Nestico, Bob Brookmeyer, Sauter-Finegan, Bill Chase, Bill Holman, Stan Kenton, Buddy Rich, Woody Herman, Les Brown, Maria Schneider, Bob Mintzer, Paquito D'Rivera, Matt Catingub, and much, much more. Instrumentation includes saxophones, trumpets, trombones, rhythm section (guitar, piano, bass, drums) and is dependent upon those applying and auditioning for spots. If you play clarinet or flute, you may be eligible to play. Contact us if you have more questions.
Performance Opportunities
NYJA Big Bands perform at clubs and events throughout the year. Previous performance venues have included Stern Auditorium at Carnegie Hall, Pier Sixty, the Tea Lounge, West-Park Presbyterian, and more.
Programs
For other program offerings, feel free to browse our site.
