Gift Cards

Regular price $100.00
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Give your special someone the joy of Jazz Night School with a gift card! Select a generic amount or provide full amount for a specific offering type.

Gift cards are delivered by email and contain instructions to redeem them at checkout. Our gift cards have no additional processing fees.

 

**NOTE: Does not apply to Private Lessons.**

There are no prerequisites for this course.

Beginning, intermediate, or advanced

Jazz Night School is a vibrant and welcoming community-based nonprofit music education program that is home to hundreds of like-minded learners. Our school offers great opportunities to meet other dedicated jazz students and artists. Whatever your skill level, we have a place for you.

Schedule a skills assessment

We strongly encourage all new students to schedule a complimentary skills assessment so we can help you figure out the best place to start.

Online learning

At this time, Jazz Night School is providing live online classes and we are welcoming students from all locations. 

What is it like to learn with us?

As a student at Jazz Night School, you'll be part of a friendly, supportive community that shares a love and deep appreciation for jazz music in all its various forms. Your development as a musician is our primary educational goal. Whatever your skill level, our program can help you improve your musicianship and discover your own unique musical voice. For new students, we provide a complimentary introductory session that includes a skills assessment. This session gives you a chance to share your goals and interests and helps us point you to the most appropriate offerings. Each quarter we offer a wide variety of classes and workshops on improvisation, harmony, ear-training, and specialized topics. Our online classes feature lots of discussion and opportunity for questions and answers. There are no grades at Jazz Night School; rather, instructors give each student individual feedback on an ongoing basis. Everyone's effort is valued. When public health restrictions are relaxed, we will return to offering group ensemble opportunities that culminate in a short performance at a local nightclub. This is a fun-filled evening where friends and family come to applaud student efforts and cheer them on to new heights of musical expression!

We understand that most of our students have important life commitments such as work and family. There may be days that you have to deal with a sick child or a pressing work deadline and you aren't able to put in as much practice time as you would have liked. We get it. Our goal is to support your musical aspirations at whatever pace you are able to sustain at this time in your life.

Instructors

Jazz Night School instructors are some of the finest musicians and educators in Seattle’s vibrant jazz community. Some have learned their art through old school traditions and others have studied at premier institutions such as Berklee College of Music, Eastman, Indiana University, Manhattan School of Music, New England Conservatory, and University of Miami. 

    For Jazz Night School's Live Online Combos, students will convene weekly via a Jamulus server to learn and work on music, and play together in real-time from remote locations.

    Components required to use Jamulus are an audio microphone (or two), plus mic-to-computer interface, a wired connection to a modem/internet router, headphones (preferably "closed-ear"), and possibly a headphone amplifier. 

    Needed for Live Online Combos

    • Computer and access to the internet
    • Modem/router that you can connect to using an ethernet cable - DO NOT USE WIFI
    • Ethernet cable (just mentioned)
    • Free Jamulus software. Instructions and access to downloads:
    • USB audio interface "Input Box" (such as Behringer UM2, Scarlett Solo or 2i2, or others, $50-$200)*
    • Microphone(s), mic cable(s), and mic stand(s):
      • One each, if your instrument is acoustic and can pick up your speaking voice well enough.
      • One each, if your instrument is electric and you just need a speaking microphone (keyboards, electric guitars, etc. plug directly into your USB audio interface "Input Box").
      • Two each, if your instrument is acoustic and the mic placement you need for your instrument does not pick up your voice when you speak. *If you need two mics, your USB audio interface "Input Box" will need to accept two mics.
    • 1/4" cable if you play an electric instrument
    • Headphones (SPEAKERS WILL NOT WORK): Over-ear headphones are best to block direct sound from your instrument (if acoustic). NOTE: Be sure you have the correct connection/plug for the headphone jack on your USB audio interface "Input Box". Some headphones use 1/4" plugs and some use mini plugs.
    • Headphone amplifier and cable to connect to "Input Box" (this is optional and needed only if your "Input Box" headphone output is not strong enough). Jazz Night School is using Rockville RHPA4 headphone amps ($30).

    Tips for using Jamulus

    Once you have your equipment working and you are connected to the Jazz Night School Jamulus "rehearsal room" (server name to be provided in your registration confirmation), you will hear everyone present in the “room” in your headphones. When playing music with others in Jamulus, the three main things to pay attention to are: 

    1. The volume of your instrument, should be loud enough to send good volume to others. This is set with the level controls on your USB audio interface "Input Box".
    2. Your headphone mix, i.e., how loud you and each person are in your headphones, and where they are panned in your headphones. Panning helps you separate and hear each person you're playing with. Volume and pan are controlled by the Jamulus interface on your computer or device. Everyone controls their own headphone mixes.
    3. The delay. When you play your instrument, you may perceive a delay in hearing your sound in your headphones. The amount of delay is determined by numerous factors, but if you set your headphone volume loud enough for your room/original sound to be secondary, you will get used to adjusting your timing to be in sync with the combined parts coming from the whole group.

    Jazz Night School Live Online Combo equipment

    Jazz Night School Live Online Combo equipment is available to students who have difficulty managing technology, or don’t want to purchase, or cannot afford to purchase equipment of their own. Our kits allow students to simply plug in and connect to our online rehearsal room. At this time there is no rental fee required for using a JNS Live Online Combo kit but suggested donations of $50 to $100 per ten-week session will gratefully be accepted to help with the equipment fund.

    For Jazz Night School's Online Recording Combos, students will convene weekly in Zoom meetings to learn music and receive coaching. During the weeks, students will practice on their own and work in BandLab to record their part of their combo’s performance.

    BandLab is a free online app/website that students need to join prior to starting a Jazz Night School Online Recording Combo. Instructors will create projects in BandLab and invite students to collaborate. It’s helpful to experiment with using BandLab before joining a combo. A Jazz Night School orientation video for using BandLab is available here.

    Needed for Online Recording Combos

    • Computer and access to the internet
    • BandLab account (free)
    • OPTIONAL BUT PREFERRED: 
      • USB audio interface "Input Box" (such as Behringer UM2, Scarlett Solo or 2i2, or others, $50-$200). Alternatives:
        • A USB microphone can work instead of a mic plus a USB audio interface "Input Box" (sound quality might not be as good but often just fine for these purposes).
        • (In a worst-case scenario, students can use the microphone built into their computer or device.)
      • Microphone, mic cable and mic stand if your instrument is acoustic
      • 1/4" cable if you play an electric instrument and are using a USB audio interface "Input Box"
      • Headphones - optional

    Participation in live online classes at JNS

    Participants are expected to treat online class meetings as if they were attending class in the JNS building, which includes behaving professionally, treating others with courtesy and respect, refraining from using profanity or socially offensive language, wearing appropriate clothing, and avoiding inappropriate surroundings.
    Students need to have and use a camera and microphone when attending web-conference class meetings. Students are expected to join from a suitable, quiet location with a device that permits participation in the class activities.

    Before you start

    Before attending your first Zoom live session, we ask that you complete the following tasks:

    1. Install the Zoom app on your computer, and enter the Zoom classroom test link.
    2. Review our best practices for attending a Zoom classroom live session.
    3. Familiarize yourself with the Zoom platform by reviewing the provided content.

    Installing and joining a Zoom meeting

    If you have never joined a Zoom meeting before, you will be prompted to download and install a Zoom application the first time you join a meeting.

    Here is a short video that walks you through the process of installing Zoom and joining a meeting: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5iap0Ffl5Lg

    Use the link below to access a test Zoom classroom. Accessing this test Zoom classroom will ensure that you have the Zoom app installed and that your internet connection, speakers, and microphone are all working properly and are compatible with the platform. Click to Join Meeting Test.

    Zoom Best Practices

    Please take time to familiarize yourself with the Zoom best practices below to help you and your fellow participants have a great experience in each live session:

    • Restart/reboot your computer before the start of your meeting, at least within the prior 24 hours.
    • Ensure you have a fast, stable internet connection. Wired connection is recommended; use wireless only if reliable. This will help ensure your connection does not falter or drop during the meeting. Avoid using any form of free public wi-fi (i.e., coffee shops, hotels, etc.). You can connect with wireless but quality may be poor.
    • Secure a quiet, distraction-free physical location to attend your session.
    • Do not join the session from a cell phone while driving/commuting in a car. 
    • Avoid having more than one computer or device within earshot logged into the same meeting, as it may cause a distracting echo effect for ALL participants in the session.
    • Use a headset, not desktop speakers. This will help to ensure an echo-free meeting environment. Better yet, use a USB media headset which also includes a microphone. Connect it, and install the driver BEFORE entering the online meeting.
    • Tablets may not have all the features that the computer versions of the Zoom app have.
    • If your  audio is not working well, you can try turning your video off.
    • Students who are playing for the instructor should probably have their microphone's "Original Sound turned on" (indicated by the label in the top left corner of the screen "Turn off Original Sound").

    Learning Zoom

    Below are some Zoom video tutorials that you can watch to familiarize yourself with the platform before your first live session. Take particular note of how to mute and un-mute yourself. 


    The following are Jazz Night School’s policies—please feel free to contact us at info@jazznightschool.org if you have any questions.

    Registration and Payments

    Ensemble registration is not solely on a first-come, first-serve basis. Roster requirements and student requests (1st, 2nd, and 3rd choices) factor into the assembly of each ensemble. Ensemble placements will be announced just prior to the beginning of the quarter. 

    Payment of tuition and fees is due upon registration for Jazz Night School, and attendance requires payment in full by the first meeting of a session (unless special arrangements have been made). Payments can be made by cash, check, or credit card. Please note: Tuition not received in full by the first meeting of a session will incur an additional $100 charge.

    Cancellations

    Offerings may be cancelled if there are not enough students enrolled.

    Registration Fee

    Jazz Night School requires a $25 registration fee for all students at the start of each quarter. This fee goes towards registration processing and operations.

    Late Payment Fees

    Unless special arrangements have been made, tuition not received in full by the end of the first week of a quarter will incur an additional $100 charge.

    Bounced Checks

    Bounced checks will incur a $50 fee.

    Absences/Cancellations/Rescheduling

    Classes and Ensembles—There will be no credits, refunds or make-ups for absence or withdrawal by student. Homework assignments may be provided upon request. Make-ups will be scheduled for any instructor absences.

    Refunds

    Refunds cannot be given once classes/ensembles have begun.

    Tuition Assistance

    Jazz Night School’s goal is to make opportunities available to everyone. Partial and full tuition waivers are available. Learn more at our Tuition Assistance page. 

    Instruction

    Jazz Night School Instructors and staff are here to help you. Ensemble students should expect that a majority of their rehearsal time is spent playing music, that individual feedback will be given every week, and that learning music aurally and/or orally (without printed music) will be encouraged whenever possible.

    Student Code of Conduct

    Jazz Night School strives to provide an empowering environment for everyone to develop their authentic musical voice. We emphasize positive collaboration through listening and appreciation of the contributions of fellow students. Be supportive, kind, respectful, and civil to fellow students and instructors. Respect each person’s unique set of challenges and gifts. Students who are unable to conduct themselves in this manner may be asked by instructor(s) or staff to leave or stop attending their Jazz Night School studies, may forfeit tuition, and may lose the privilege of future enrollment. Students are asked to come to class prepared but we prefer attendance even if students are not able to prepare. Each student will have the opportunity to advocate for their own musical development - ask questions, make suggestions, and share your concerns with your instructor or staff. If you have to miss a class or performance, no problem - but please email your instructor and/or fellow students to let them know. We ask that students do not offer critical feedback to their combo-mates. Positive reinforcement is encouraged, but all critical comments should come from the instructor and the instructor only.

    Facility Care

    Please leave all areas completely free of all trash and personal items. No food, drink, or gum in the rehearsal rooms and no objects on the pianos. Eating is permitted at the lobby window counter. Students are expected to assist with the upkeep of common areas, rehearsal rooms, and equipment by returning all items they use to their proper locations (for example but not limited to music stands, cymbals, mic stands, amplifiers). Use the student door code (provided to students at the beginning of each term) to enter the building. If you forget your code, please wait for another student to arrive; do not ask students in class to open the door for you, as it is disruptive to the classes. Instructors and students are welcome to use the Jazz Night School copy machine for Jazz Night School printing needs. 

    Property Damage

    In the unfortunate event that any Jazz Night School property is damaged due to misuse, intentional actions, or by accident, the following policy will be enforced:

    1. Responsibility for Damages: Any individual found responsible for damaging Jazz Night School property, whether through accidental or intentional means, will be held accountable for the repair or replacement costs.
    2. Reporting Damage: Anyone who witnesses or discovers damage to Jazz Night School property is required to report it immediately to a staff member.
    3. Assessment of Damages: Upon receiving a report of property damage, Jazz Night School staff will assess the extent of the damage and determine the repair or replacement costs.
    4. Payment for Repairs: The individual responsible for the damage will be notified of the assessment and required to reimburse Jazz Night School for the full cost of repairs or replacement within a specified timeframe.
    5. Failure to Pay: Failure to reimburse Jazz Night School for the damage within the designated timeframe may result in further consequences, including but not limited to removal and/or prohibition from Jazz Night School

    Room Booking

    Enrolled Jazz Night School students are welcome to use un-booked rehearsal room time for their personal practice. 

    1. Reservation Process:
      1. All room reservations must be made through the designated booking system or by contacting the Jazz Night School operations manager.
      2. Reservations should be made at least one day in advance to ensure availability.
    2. Booking Procedures:
      1. Bookings are made on a first-come, first-served basis.
      2. Individuals can book rooms for a maximum duration of two hours per session.
      3. Continuous bookings beyond two hours require prior approval from Jazz Night School administration.
    3. Room Usage Guidelines:
      1. Rooms must be used for music-related activities only, such as practice sessions or rehearsals.
      2. Food and beverages are strictly prohibited inside the practice rooms.
      3. Users are responsible for maintaining cleanliness and orderliness in the rooms. Any damages or excessive mess caused during the booking period will be the responsibility of the individual who made the booking.
    4. Noise Regulations:
      1. Users must adhere to noise regulations and be considerate of others in adjacent rooms.
      2. Amplified instruments or loud music may only be played in designated soundproofed rooms to minimize disturbance.
    5. Security and Access:
      1. Users must not share their access codes with unauthorized individuals.
      2. All individuals entering the practice rooms must have valid identification and proof of booking if requested by staff.
    6. Compliance and Enforcement:
      1. Failure to comply with these room booking policies may result in penalties, suspension of booking privileges, or other disciplinary actions deemed appropriate by Jazz Night School.
      2. Jazz Night School reserves the right to amend or update these policies as necessary, with prior notice to all stakeholders.

    By adhering to these room booking policies, we can ensure a harmonious and productive environment for all members of the Jazz Night School community.

    Performances

    The end-of-session performances are a vitally important culminating experience. They are your opportunity to communicate with your authentic musical voice to a friendly and enthusiastic crowd. Be sure to enter the end-of-session performance date(s) in your calendar at the beginning of every session. The end-of-session performances are an opportunity to showcase all of your hard work during the session. For the performances, be sure to dress to impress and invite your friends & family. Jazz Night School staff will work hard to accommodate any performance time change requests, but may not always manage to rearrange the schedule, especially at the last minute.

    Recording, Performance, and Photography Release

    All performances presented by Jazz Night School (Jazz Night School) students/ensembles/performing groups and any persons performing or working with them (known collectively hereafter as “Students”) as part of Jazz Night School’s curricular or extra-curricular events may be audiotaped, filmed, videotaped or photographed. In addition, Jazz Night School may engage in commercial audio recording, film, video and photography projects featuring its Students.

    Jazz Night School reserves all rights to these audio recordings, films, videotapes or photographs (known collectively hereafter as “Recordings”), including the right to broadcast, license, assign, and distribute the Recordings and derivatives thereof in all media, for any purpose and without limitation.

    All Students assign to Jazz Night School all copyright and other rights in such performances and Recordings, including any rights to proceeds earned from commercial distribution or other use of the Recordings. In addition, Students’ names and likenesses in the published materials associated with these Recordings may be used by Jazz Night School and its agents. Jazz Night School is released from any claims arising out of broadcast, commercial distribution and promotion of these recordings. All rights in and to a composition will remain sole property of the composer(s). The Recordings may also be used to promote Jazz Night School and its programs.

    Nondiscrimination

    Jazz Night School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, sexual orientation, gender, disability, use of service animals, national or ethnic origin, or any other trait or characteristic protected by law in admission of otherwise qualified students; in providing access to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at Jazz Night School; or in its administration of educational policies, admissions policies, financial aid, and other school-administered programs.