Spring is just around the corner, and Charleston Jazz Academy is excited to introduce a variety of new programs designed to bring jazz education to all ages. Whether you are a toddler just beginning your musical journey or a seasoned musician looking to refine your improvisation skills, there is something for everyone at the academy this season.
Baby Bebop
Led by music teacher Nina Riley, Baby Bebop is an engaging and interactive class for young children and their parents. Each week, participants will explore music through singing, dancing, and playful songs ranging from soothing lullabies to lively jams. With child-friendly percussion instruments in hand, little ones will engage in a joyful and immersive musical experience. No prior musical experience is required—just a willingness to get on the floor, have fun, and embrace the joy of making music with your child.
- Mondays at 10:00 AM
- March 3rd - May 19th
- Park Circle Community Center
- Walkers to 4 years old
- $50 per month
- Learn more and register here.
Jazz Improvisation Classes
The Improvisation program at Charleston Jazz Academy is designed to equip musicians with the tools needed to navigate jazz improvisation. Covering scales, chord progressions, chromaticism, enclosures, and more, students will develop their musical language and confidence.
Gavin Smith teaches Beginner Improvisation, while Mark Sterbank leads the Intermediate/Advanced Improvisation class. These courses help students learn to improvise musically as naturally as they improvise verbally. With the skills gained in these classes, we anticipate a growing community of confident and creative improvisers throughout Charleston. Bring your instruments and get ready to expand your musical abilities.
- Class starts March 6
- Beginner: Thursdays, 4:45 PM - 6:15 PM
- Intermediate/Advanced: Thursdays, 6:15 PM - 7:45 PM
- $60 per month for Charleston Jazz Academy students
- $120 per month for non-CJA students
- Learn more and register here.
Charleston Jazz Jam Session
A monthly jazz jam session open to musicians of all ages. Students, adult learners, and professionals alike are invited to perform in a welcoming and encouraging environment. A sign-up list will be posted online, along with “Community Tunes” for everyone to review in advance. With a professional rhythm section in place, we invite all Charleston-area musicians to participate in this great jazz tradition. Non-musicians who enjoy live jazz are also welcome, though space will be limited.
- Sunday, February 23 at 5:00 PM
- Sunday, March 23 at 5:00 PM
- Sunday, April 27 at 7:30 PM
- Charleston Jazz Academy
- Free admission
- Learn more and register here.
“With so many wonderful things happening at the Academy, we cannot keep our excitement to ourselves. From toddlers to seniors, our new programs are primed to elevate jazz education in the Lowcountry to a whole new level.” — Demetrius Doctor, Director of The Charleston Jazz Academy
