Jazz in the Schools

Jazz in the Schools (JIS) is an energetic, fun and educational community outreach program focused on taking jazz into classrooms throughout the Northwest. Throughout the year, students meet professional jazz artists, learn about the diverse forms of jazz music and practice their jazz skills through hands-on activities.

“Jazz in the Schools meets a very real need in the community, particularly in areas that don’t have access to high-quality arts programming,” said Vanessa Sielert, director of the Lionel Hampton School of Music. “It helps to foster an appreciation of music and the arts and of how music can be an important and transformative part of our lives.”

The program provides teachers and students with jazz education materials, activities and an interactive presentation with educators and artists. There is no cost for participating schools. Call 208-885-5900 or email jazzinfo@uidaho.edu for more information.

Testimonials

"Thank you so much for coming to us! My students learned a lot, enjoyed the experience, and I heard from several teachers that they also enjoyed listening!” -J.H., band director

"I received an email from the 4th grade teacher saying she was never a jazz fan until now. So whatever you all did to change her mind, good job!" -S.R., general music teacher