WHO WE ARE...
The Winnipeg Jazz Education Collective is a partnership and working group between the Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra, the Manitoba Band Association, and the University of Manitoba Jazz Department.
The Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra (WJO) is Canada’s first community-
based, non-profit, professional jazz orchestra. Founded in 1997
(registered charity in 2000), the WJO has matured to become an
important part of Winnipeg’s cultural landscape, which is reflected
in the ongoing support the organization receives from the Manitoba
Arts Council, the Winnipeg Arts Council, the Winnipeg Foundation,
and other sponsors. The mandate of the Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra
is to be an instrumental force in the promotion and development of
big band jazz in Manitoba and beyond: through performance,
composition, recording and education.
Visit us at www.winnipegjazzorchestra.com
Manitoba Band Association (MBA)
Formed in 1977, the Manitoba Band Association non-profit charitable organization fosters, promotes, and encourages the establishment, growth, and development of band and band activities in Manitoba. The MBA is supported by the membership of music educators, music students, community bands, industry partners, and others, who share their goal.
The MBA is affiliated with the Canadian Band Association, the Manitoba Music Educators Association, and the Coalition for Music Education in
Canada.Visit us at www.mbband.org
University Of Manitoba Faculty of Music - Jazz
The University of Manitoba Jazz studies program offers a one-of a-kind education in jazz performance, theory, composition, and history. Over the years, the program has produced many great instrumentalist and vocalists, who continue to cultivate their
voices as artists. Students in the program are trained in both the technical and creative aspects of jazz music, with a focus on
improvisation, ensemble playing, and individual artistic development.The University’s School of Music offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in jazz, with programs designed to nurture students’ abilities; and help them become versatile and innovative musicians. Through regular performance opportunities, masterclasses, workshops, and collaborations with visiting artists, students gain practical experience in both solo and ensemble settings. The jazz program also provides students with access to a wide network of industry professionals, helping to build
connections that can be pivotal in their careers.The program’s diverse and inclusive approach fosters an environment where students from all musical backgrounds can thrive, whether they are interested in pursuing careers as performing artists, educators, composers, or in other music industry roles.
Visit us at umanitoba.ca/explore/programs-of-study/jazz-studies-bjazz
WJEC Program Director- Sean Irvine
Winnipeg-based musician Sean Irvine has quickly gained recognition as a top-tier performer, composer, and woodwind specialist. While his primary focus is the saxophone, Irvine is also a skilled flautist, clarinetist, and oboist. Irvine also has over a decade of experience in program development and initiative.
As a highly sought after educator, Irvine frequently works with a wide range of ensembles and students in roles such as adjudicator, mentor, and leader. His
teaching positions have included Professor of Saxophone Studies at the
Canadian Mennonite University, Sessional Lecturer at the University of
Toronto, educator with the Pembina Trails School Division, and Director
of Woodwinds with the Winnipeg El Sistema music outreach program in
collaboration with the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra.As the former Executive Director of Pride Winnipeg, he is deeply committed
to fostering educational opportunities within the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
WJEC 2025
