most advanced
PYJO Vanguard - Mondays 6:45-8:45pm

A semi-professional band that performs often & works with world-class clinicians. A mix of PYJO Alumni / College & Adult Musicians / Select Advanced High School Students.

advanced
PYJO 1 - Mondays 4:30-6:30pm

Top high school level ensemble focus on modern harmony, improvisation & technical skills. (Alumni/College Students/Adults welcome)

intermediate-advanced
PYJO 2 - Tuesdays 6:45-8:45pm

A high school group plus advanced middle school musicians. Focus on Jazz styles including Count Basie etc. Beginning or experienced soloists will be challenged a their own pace.

advanced
PYJO 1 Combo
Small Group - Open to any instruments
Mondays 5:30-7:30pm

A high school level ensemble to prep for PYJO 1. Focus on bebop & before with an emphasis on improvisation techniques, styles of the era & maneuvering around chord changes with difficult twists. (Alumni/College Students/Adults welcome)

intermediate-advanced
PYJO 2 Combo
(Rhythm Section) Piano - Guitar - Mallets - Bass - Drums
Tuesdays 5:30-7:30pm

A place for rhythm section members to learn to comp together / behind a soloist, expand knowledge of voicings, interpret chord changes, stretch rhythmic skills, study song form & soloing.

intermediate
PYJO 3 - Tuesdays 4:45-6:30pm

A Middle School / Early High School Band. Focuses on learning to play within the various roles of a Jazz ensemble, establishing a solid rhythmic foundation & introduction to Jazz soloing. A positive & engaging environment.

beginning-intermediate
PYJO Pops! - Wednesdays 7-8:30pm

A place for talented younger musicians to learn Popular Rock, Latin, Jazz, Funk and Film Score Music. Soloing will be introduced with volunteer soloists.

Advanced Groups
High School & Beyond

Vanguard Band - Mondays 6:45-8:45pm - Most Advanced


PYJO 1 - Mondays 4:30-6:30pm - Advanced


PYJO 1 Combo - Mondays 5:30-7:30pm - Advanced


PYJO 2 - Tuesdays 6:45-8:45pm - Intermediate-Advanced


PYJO 2 Combo (Rhythm Section) - Tuesdays 5:30-7:30pm - Intermediate-Advanced


Beginning-Intermediate Groups
Middle School Early High School (or Younger)

PYJO 2 - Tuesdays 6:45-8:45pm - Intermediate-Advanced


PYJO 3 - Tuesdays 4:45 - 6:30pm - Intermediate


PYJO Pops! - Wednesdays 7-8:30pm - Beginning-Intermediate


PYJO 2 Combo - Tuesdays 5:30-7:30pm - Intermediate-Advanced


Which Band Do I Sign Up For? (Pre-pandemic)

Placement in upper level bands is determined by the directors. Look at the descriptions to determine your approximate level. Then either email or fill out the Inquire form to reach the directors. They will let you know about openings for your instrument and ask you any needed questions to determine your placement. If you are borderline between bands, an audition may be needed. We do have 'formal' audition materials, but often can place students with a discussion with a private teacher/band director or by having them video record a Jazz piece they already have worked up. (NO AUDITION needed for PYJO 3 or PYJO Pops! Just sign up & get started!)

Private Lessons

Private Lessons are available on Saxophones, Flute, Clarinet, Bass Clarinet, Trumpet, Trombone, Euphonium/Baritone, Tuba, Voice, Piano, Guitar, Bass (upright & electric), Drums. Also on any instrument wishing to study improvisation, composition or music theory. Contact us to connect with a teacher!