Jazz workshop opened to all area students

Trombonist Jeff Bush is among the fine musicians who will lead jazz workshops prior to their performance as the Pittsburgh Jazz Orchestra’s Little Big Band on April 7.

Area middle and high school musicians can learn from some of the region’s finest jazz instrumentalists in a master class workshop at Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center.
The master class is held in conjunction with the April 7 show by the Pittsburgh Jazz Orchestra’s Little Big Band, part of the center’s Jazz in the Box series. The purchase of a ticket to the show is the only cost for students to participate in the workshop, said Eric DeFade, a Grammy-winning saxophonist and Lincoln Park resident artist who teaches at Lincoln Park Performing Arts Charter School.
For tickets, patrons may visit www.lincolnparkarts.org, stop in at the Lincoln Park box office, or call 724.576.4644. Tickets are $10 for students and $20 for adults.
Students participate in three hours of workshops, then have the chance to perform in a one-hour pre-show before the 7:30 p.m. concert.
“This is a rare opportunity for young musicians to work with outstanding musicians and music educators,” DeFade said. “The Pittsburgh Jazz Orchestra has gained recognition as a world-class ensemble. Its members are some of the finest musicians in the region.”
Clinicians for the workshops include trombonist Jeff Bush, bass player Paul Thompson, drummer Thomas Wendt, and saxophonist Eric DeFade.
Those interested may contact DeFade at eric.defade@lppacenter.org, phone 412-848-4684, or inquire through the box office, 724.576.4644.
Students may attend individually or with a combo of their fellow musicians, according to DeFade. The workshop will include instrument specific instruction, sectionals, ensemble coaching and tips on jazz improvisation. Students are encouraged to bring any material that they may be preparing for auditions or concerts. After the workshop, students will have the opportunity to before the concert.
The workshop schedule begins with sectionals at 2 p.m., followed by ensemble coaching, a jazz improvisation master class, and pizza at 5 p.m.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]