New to 2026, the WJEC Summer Jazz Intensive is a week-long program designed for musicians aged 18 and older who are eager to explore the jazz tradition, develop their improvisational skills, and seek performance opportunities. Whether you’ve never improvised before or you’re a seasoned soloist looking to expand your experience on stage, this program offers engaging and supportive learning opportunities for every level.

Led by faculty members from the Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra, participants will engage in classes that strengthen music theory knowledge and ear training, alongside rehearsals in small jazz ensembles. Throughout the week, musicians will build confidence, expand their musical vocabulary, and deepen their understanding of jazz performance practices.

The intensive culminates in a live concert performance open to friends, family, and the broader community. Rooted in the tradition of Black American improvised music, the program emphasizes artistic growth, mentorship from professional musicians, and the creation of lasting musical connections. It is a welcoming and supportive environment where participants are encouraged to take risks, experiment, and ask questions.

PROGRAM APPLICATION

On Sunday, August 16th, applicants will take part in placement auditions where they will be required to perform an improvised solo for an educator and be assessed on their ear training. After completing the audition, applicants will write a short theory assessment. All applicants will be accepted into the program. The purpose of these assessments is for us to guarantee the optimal learning experience for each individual!

Repertoire

Applicants need only perform one piece for the educator they are paired with. Not sure what to play? ‘Sonnymoon For Two’ is a great choice! Applicants may alternatively select a jazz standard of their choosing. Please refrain from playing an excerpt of a piece from your local jazz band: we are looking to hear your voice as a jazz improviser!

Click Here:Sonnymoon For Two Chart (all keys/clefs)

Original Track | Backing Track | Swing Groove

Brass & Woodwinds: Horns will be asked to perform the melody to a jazz standard, along with two choruses of solo.

Vocalists: Vocalists can choose to scat an instrumental melody or prepare a jazz standard with lyrics, along with a chorus of scat soloing. Vocalists may be assessed on their range during the audition.

Note: If you are unsure if a song choice would make a good fit, feel free to email us to inquire about a song choice!

Guitarist/ Pianist: Comping instruments will be asked to demonstrate a chorus of comping on their instrument, along with
melody and two choruses of solo.

Bassists: Bassists will be asked to demonstrate a chorus of walking bass on their instrument, along with melody and two choruses of solo.

Drummers: Drummers may be asked to demonstrate a swing, rock, and latin groove during the audition, along with 2 choruses of solo.

*Additional Assessments- During your audition, your instructor may ask you to demonstrate scales, technique, or additional materials, to gain a better understanding of your experience with jazz, improvising, and your instrument.

**Applicants may choose to audition on two instruments.