JAZZ.FM91 Youth Big Band Presented by HSBC

Since 2008, The JAZZ.FM91 Youth Big Band has been presenting excellence in music education for talented and enthusiastic high school students. In addition to providing students the experience of being part of this unique ensemble, The Youth Big Band provides a cultural asset for our community.

The Youth Big Band has played with artists such as Al Jarreau, Branford Marsalis and Joey Calderazzo, at venues such as the TD Toronto Jazz Festival, Massey Hall, the Rochester Jazz Festival and our annual fundraising concert – Jazz Lives.

A NOTE FROM JULES ESTRIN

Each year during the audition process for the JAZZFM91 Youth Big Band I get a snap shot into what the group is going to look and sound like!

This fall, as the students came into audition I noticed some extraordinary young talent. A number of the students that auditioned into the group this year are as young as 13 and 14 years old! I thought what a great opportunity to have a “rebuilding” year!

However in the past couple of weeks (with some diligent work on their part) this years edition of the JAZZFM91 Youth Big Band will be one of the strongest, most musical ensembles that this program has yet to deliver!

Watch out for this talented group!

MEET THE MEMBERS OF THE JAZZ.FM91 YOUTH BIG BAND HERE

Led by educator and professional musician Jules Estrin, the band rehearsals provide mentorship, and encourage development and growth. Participation is provided free of charge to band members - Thanks to the generosity of our donors and sponsors:

Presenting

This program is important to me because it allows me to do something I love while being with other people who share my passion. At school, people take jazz as a class, but at JAZZ.FM91 people join because they love playing the music.

It is the only ensemble in which I am constantly being challenged and I’m constantly learning new things from it in terms of both performance and musicianship aspects.

Playing in the band gave me experience playing at a higher level than I could elsewhere, with other people my age who are incredibly talented. It also…helped me meet people involved in jazz…I was thoroughly challenged musically which helped me improve as a musician.