Gem State Jazz Camp 2026 – Middle School Day Camp
The Gem State Jazz Camp Middle School program is designed for middle school jazz musicians who want to build confidence, learn improvisation, and experience playing in a real jazz ensemble environment.
Students spend the week developing their musicianship through combo rehearsals, big band ensemble, masterclasses, and guided jam sessions while working closely with experienced jazz educators and performers.
Day Camp runs July 12–17, 2026 with daytime programming from 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
Includes
- Combo rehearsals
- Big Band ensemble
- Daily masterclasses with faculty
- Guided jazz improvisation sessions
- Jam sessions and group activities
- Dress rehearsal and Student Showcase Concert
- 2026 Camp T-Shirt (worn for Friday rehearsal and picture day)
Spring Break Camp Materials Starter, including:
Camp Jam tunes with improvisation exercises, custom backing tracks in three keys, rhythm section practice tracks (piano/guitar comping, bass lines, drum styles), and practice licks for: Minor Pentatonic, Major Pentatonic, ii-V-I progressions, and iii-vi-ii-V-I progressions.
Exodus Music Bronze Trial Student Membership (5%), providing a limited-time student discount on select educational materials from Exodus Music before and during camp.
Eligibility
This camp is designed for students completing grades 6–8 during the 2025–2026 school year (entering grades 7–9 in Fall 2026).
Students should also have at least one year of band or orchestra experience on their instrument, or two years of private lessons for piano or guitar. No prior jazz experience is required.
Students entering 9th grade may choose to attend either (or both) the Middle School Camp or the High School Camp.
Refunds and cancellations are available only until the final registration deadline of June 20, 2026, and are subject to a 10% merchant processing and administrative recovery fee. By completing registration, you acknowledge and agree to the full policy: gemstatejazzcamp.com/registration-policies
