Jazz Studies
MSA Jazz Studies fosters an atmosphere of excellence, where each student is important to the whole. Regarded as one of the top Instrumental Jazz programs in nationwide, MSA Jazz Studies provides a comprehensive curriculum for students interested in Jazz music.
Students progress in the program based on skill level and will play music that is appropriate for an advanced high school or intermediate college band. Students will work on a variety of skills including intonation, accuracy of rhythm, articulations, phrasing and style characteristics. Those in the Jazz Combo program are encouraged to compose original music; faculty direction and feedback is a major part of the process for students working on original composition.
Instruction comes from seasoned teachers, top professionals in the music field, and peer mentoring. The MSA Jazz Band performs extensively in the community and at music festivals. Students are expected to make time available for performances and festivals, and are required to practice outside of class.
Jazz I is the advanced jazz big band at Marin School of the Arts. An elite level high school jazz ensemble, MSA Jazz I excels in performance settings including festivals, concerts, and collaborations with guest artists.
Jazz II is the intermediate level jazz big band at Marin School of the Arts. Students in Jazz II maintain an active performance schedule including festivals and concerts. Students will develop an understanding of jazz style, improvisation, and understanding their roles in the ensemble as they rehearse and perform repertoire from a variety of eras, composers, and styles.
Awards + Accolades
2022-2023
Bay Area Creative Foundation Youth Awards
- 1 Presidential Award
- 1 Exceptional Award
- 1 Special Award
Folsom Jazz Music Festival
- 3 Outstanding Musicianship Awards, Jazz 1
- 2 Outstanding Musicianship Awards, Jazz 2
- 2 Outstanding Musicianship Awards, Jazz Vocals
2019-2020
Best Music School in Marin, Marin Independent Journal’s Reader’s Choice Awards
Folsom Jazz Festival
- Jazz Choir 2, 1st Place
- Jazz Band 2 & Jazz Combo, 3rd Place
2018-2019
Best Music School in Marin, Marin Independent Journal’s Reader’s Choice Awards
Next Generation Monterey Jazz Festival
- MSA Jazz Combo 1, Finalist
- MSA Jazz Combo 1, Finalist
- Sarah Meblin, vocal soloist, Finalist
- Folsom Jazz Festival
- Jazz Combo 1, Div. A, 1st Place
- Jazz Choir 1, 2nd Place Overall, Command performance
- Jazz Band2, Div. B, 2nd Place
Matthew Verplaetse, Music Director
