Middle School Jazz Camp
June 15–19 (Week 1) | June 22–26 (Week 2)
An immersive week of jazz for rising 7th–9th graders.
Your Week in Jazz
From the first downbeat Monday morning to Friday’s final performance, middle school musicians immerse themselves in the art of jazz. Students work in small ensembles matched to their level, learning to lock into a groove, support their bandmates, and take their first (or next) steps as improvisers. Each week stands alone with fresh material, so you can attend one or return for both.
What You’ll Do
- Ensemble Playing: Master the pocket, develop timing, and learn to listen while you play in multiple styles
- Improvisation: Break down soloing into learnable steps and start speaking the language of jazz
- Theory & Ear Training: Build practical music theory skills and develop your ear
- Private Lessons: Work one-on-one with an instructor on your primary instrument
- Guest Artists & Jam Sessions: Learn from professional jazz educators and test your ideas in daily jams
Friday Evening Performance
Every week concludes with a student showcase for family and friends.
Details
- Who: All instruments welcome (basic familiarity required)
- When: Mon–Fri, 9:30 AM–3:00 PM (Fri Performance: 6 – 9 pm)
- Cost: $600/week or $1,100/both weeks
- Where: The Jazzschool, 2087 Addison St., Berkeley, CA
How to Register
All students are welcome! We use a short recorded audition solely for ensemble placement—not for admission. Apply here.
Space is limited—register early.
Questions?
Contact Rob Ewing, Director of Education: rob@jazzschool.org
2026 Middle School Jazz Camp Faculty
Week 1
Kasey Knudsen – Jazz Ensemble
Kasey Knudsen is a San Francisco–based saxophonist, composer, and educator recognized as a leading voice in the Bay Area jazz scene. A Berklee College of Music graduate in Jazz Composition, she has received commissions from San Jose Jazz, Intersection for the Arts, and the de Young Museum, and leads several acclaimed ensembles. As a performer, she has collaborated with artists including Tune-Yards, Fred Frith, Charlie Hunter, and Erik Jekabson. An experienced educator, she has taught at the Jazzschool and Sonoma State University and has been a clinician at major festivals and programs nationwide.
Colin Hogan – Funk Ensemble
Colin Hogan is a Bay Area pianist and multi-instrumentalist whose work spans jazz, funk, salsa, hip-hop, and global styles. A graduate of Cal State East Bay, he performed with the Berkeley High School Jazz Ensemble and has played alongside artists including James Moody, Maria Schneider, Roy Ayers, and Larry Graham. Hogan has toured internationally across five continents and is active in projects such as Jazz Mafia, Trio Zincalo, and The Hogan Bros. Known for his versatility and groove-centered approach, he brings a wide-ranging musical perspective to his teaching and performing.
Kazemde George – Latin Ensemble
Kazemde George is a saxophonist, composer, and educator whose work draws on jazz, hip-hop, and Afro-diasporic traditions. Raised in Berkeley, he studied at the Harvard/NEC joint program, earning degrees in neurobiology and jazz composition, and trained with artists including Miguel Zenón and Jason Moran. He has performed with Solange, David Murray, and Norah Jones at major venues and festivals worldwide. His debut album I Insist was released on Greenleaf Music, with a second album forthcoming. A former Brooklyn-based musician, he is now active in the Bay Area as both a performer and educator.
Week 2
Kasey Knudsen – Jazz Ensemble
Kasey Knudsen is a San Francisco–based saxophonist, composer, and educator recognized as a leading voice in the Bay Area jazz scene. A Berklee College of Music graduate in Jazz Composition, she has received commissions from San Jose Jazz, Intersection for the Arts, and the de Young Museum, and leads several acclaimed ensembles. As a performer, she has collaborated with artists including Tune-Yards, Fred Frith, Charlie Hunter, and Erik Jekabson. An experienced educator, she has taught at the Jazzschool and Sonoma State University and has been a clinician at major festivals and programs nationwide.
Simon Keyser-Petty – Funk Ensemble
Simon Keyser-Petty is a Bay Area producer, multi-instrumentalist, bandleader, and educator. He leads the Celestial Hotties Art Collective, presenting vibrant music and arts events, and has worked with community organizations across the region. As a producer and engineer, he has collaborated with a wide range of artists and studios, and records extensively as a session musician. At the Jazzschool, he directs the Youth Funk Ensembles, focusing on groove-based styles from James Brown to contemporary artists. His teaching emphasizes creativity, collaboration, and confident performance.
Melecio Magdaluyo – Latin Ensemble
Melecio Magdaluyo is a highly respected Bay Area saxophonist, flautist, and multi-instrumentalist with a career spanning decades. A founding member of John Santos’ Machete Ensemble, he has performed and recorded with artists including Tito Puente, Sheila E., Pete Escovedo, and The Whispers. Active in both performance and education since the 1970s, he is known as one of the region’s most sought-after musicians. In addition to his extensive freelance work, Magdaluyo leads his own ensembles and brings deep experience in Latin and jazz traditions to his teaching.