Fall 2026 (2 sections)
| Age | Adult |
| Event Type | Class |
| Department | Ensembles |
| Day | Sat, Mon |
| Instructor | Danny Caron |
| Status | inperson event |
Explore groove-based American roots styles including blues, R&B, funk, gospel, New Orleans traditions, and related repertoire. The ensemble focuses on developing strong rhythmic feel, stylistic awareness, expressive soloing, and effective group interaction across a range of groove-centered music.
Participants will work on:
-
Developing a strong, consistent groove
-
Playing expressive, stylistically appropriate solos
-
Strengthening ensemble communication and dynamic awareness
-
Building repertoire across blues, R&B, funk, gospel, and related styles
One vocalist is welcome per section.
Prerequisites
-
Ability to play basic blues chord progressions and scales in multiple keys
-
Familiarity with blues and R&B styles recommended
-
Ability to read chord charts
Sections
Section 1
Mondays 8:15–9:45 pm
9/21–11/30
No class 11/23
Performance: 12/12
Section 2
Saturdays 11:45 am–1:15 pm
9/26–12/5
No class 11/28
Performance: 12/12
Danny Caron, $475
(in-person)
Important Notes
-
All ensembles culminate in a live, free performance.
-
Please confirm you can attend the performance date before registering.
-
A placement audition is required for new students.
How to Register
Please complete the online Ensemble Application Form below. Once we’ve received your application and, for new students, your audition recording, we’ll review your information and contact you to confirm placement. Once your placement is confirmed, we’ll send you a link to submit tuition payment. No payment is required until placement is confirmed.
Application form and audition guidelines:
Jazzschool Ensemble Application Form and Audition Guidelines
About Danny Caron
Danny Caron has built a career that reads like a “Who’s Who of the Blues.” Over the past three decades, he has recorded and performed with artists including Clifton Chenier, Charles Brown, John Lee Hooker, Van Morrison, Bonnie Raitt, and Dr. John.
Caron was the featured guitarist on the Van Morrison–produced John Lee Hooker album Don’t Look Back, which received GRAMMY Awards for Best Traditional Blues Recording and Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals. For 12 years, he served as guitarist and musical director for Charles Brown, and his recent touring work has included performances with Robben Ford, Maria Muldaur, and Taj Mahal.