YOUTH JAZZ INTERNATIONAL
ABOUT US
We are a student led jazz organization aiming to redefine jazz. The Youth Jazz International community shares one vision: to introduce young musicians, wherever they are in their musical journey, to new insights in style and technique. This opens a door for them to discover a new dimension in music with a path to freedom and personal exploration. We are a vibrant community of passionate supporters. Music connects. We invite you to join us on this joyous and imaginative ride in youth jazz as a sponsor, a patron, a collaborator, a participant, or in any capacity that suits you
Want to connect with us? Email us at youthjazzinternational@gmail.com for more information or visit us at Instagram, Youtube, and Facebook @youthjazzinternational
DETAILS
Practice Location: Lone Star Music Academy at Flowermound, TX
HOW WE BEGAN
YJI was founded in 2022 under affiliation with CMIYA. Within our first year, we grew the program from bottom to top, redining jazz within a community that cherishes belonging and unity. Since our start, we have opened our own separate organization and created a safe space for young aspiring musicians to find their passion for improv and jazz.
WHAT WE OFFER
YJI strives to be a musician’s community, aiming toward the creation of jazz and improv style music and maintaining inclusivity for instrument-players and music artists alike. Our program is taught by international jazz teachers, inviting a diverse range of compositions within jazz music, with instruments ranging from the double bass to the flute. The students come from all different musical backgrounds and each brings a unique melody and pattern to our organization.
OUR MISSION
Youth Jazz International's mission has two main objectives: to introduce the arts of jazz and improvisation to youths, and to bring live jazz music to everyone. We believe jazz, a genre rich with freedom and spontaneity, is most effectively taught during the formative years of secondary school, when students are full of imagination and before the onset rigidity. Learning to embrace their improvisational spirits compels students to adopt a mindset that turns perceived mistakes into creative opportunities in music and, perhaps, in life. In addition, YJI aim to bring music to public spaces where lots of different cultures converge, where audiences live, work and recreate. We believe that music heals, communicates, and connects. Everyone deserves to experience the richness and power of live music, regardless of their circumstances. For our ensemble members, engaging with people from diverse backgrounds and learning their unique stories broadens perspectives and promotes meaningful growth.
UPCOMING EVENT
Coaching Session with Mr. Meijer on 2/08 @ Lonestar Music Academy in Flowermound
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EVENTS
- 9/7: YJI Student Orientation
- 9/21: Coaching Session - Week 1 (Cortez)
- 10/12: Coaching Session - Week 2 (Cortez)
- 10/18: Coaching Session / Rehearsal - Week 3 (Hager)
- 10/19: First Performance @ Ebel Grassland Ranch (Community Outreach) - Meijer
- 11/2: Coaching Session - Week 4 (Hager 3:30-4:30, Meijer 4:30-6:30)
- 11/9: Charity Performance, joint event with InOne (Community Outreach)
- 11/16: Coaching Session - Week 5 (Meijer)
- 12/6: Coaching Session / Rehearsal - Week 6 (Hager)
- 12/7: Coaching Session / Rejearsal - Week 8 (Meijer)
- 12/7: Winter Recital (Lone Star Music Academy). Last day of YJI Fall Semester. Registration for new members begins for the Spring semester
- 1/18: Coaching Session
- 1/25: Coaching Session
- 2/8: Coaching Session
- 2/15: Coaching Session
- 2/28: YJI Fundraising Event
- 3/1: Coaching Session
- 3/29: Coaching Session
- 4/4 Rehearsal for Frisco International Fest
- 4/4: Frisco International Fest
- 4/12: Coaching Session
- 4/26: Coaching Session
- 5/2/25 Rehearsal for the Final Showcase
- 5/3/25: Final Showcase / Masterclass with Professor Tixier
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Introducing YJI's 2025 Fundraising Event on 2/28 at the Plano Steinway Gallery presenting the one and only Marijn Meijer! Scan the QR to purchase your tickets! Donations are appreciated
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WANT TO JOIN US?
Membership Pricing:
$575 tuition along with a $75 material fee per season - twice per month ensemble coaching sessions, September through May, including minimally two performances and one masterclass with a renowned jazz artist. Material fee covers the costs of music arrangements --> total tuition $650
$75 registration fee per student
$100 registration fee per family (1 or more siblings)
Registration fee is waived if registered by July 4, 2024
FAQ:
Q: What is YJI's objective? A: To introduce the arts of jazz and improvisation to youths and to bring live jazz music to everyone
Q: When and where are the practices? A: We meet up twice a month every Saturday at the Lone Star Music Academy in Flower Mound. Each practice consists of 1 hour
Q: What instruments are YJI looking for? A: We are in need for more piano, drums, bass, guitar (any rhythm instruments), but other instruments can be accepted as well
Q: How big is the size of the group? A: So far we have 14 students in YJI and we're looking for more members
Q: When is the application to join YJI due? A: Application ends on July 1, but if you apply later, you will have to pay a fee of either $75 or $100
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If you are wanting to join, please fill out this Google Form!
If you are a returning member, please fill out this Google Form!