Charleston Jazz

Jazz Combo Camp: Swing Time SOLD OUT
2024-06-17 09:00 - 2024-06-21 15:30 (America/New_York) | Charleston Jazz Academy, 3005 West Montague Avenue, Suite 200, North Charleston, SC, 29418, United States
Explore jazz improvisation in a fun, supportive environment!

June 17—21: Swing Time
Location: Charleston Jazz Academy
9:00AM-3:30PM
This week of camp is full. Space is currently available for the weeks of July 8th and July 22nd.

Welcome to Jazz Combo Camp, where the music comes alive with more than just eighth notes! Immerse yourself in the world of jazz where students not only learn how to play their instruments but also how to swing to the rhythm. From syncopated beats to soulful melodies, Jazz Combo Camp is where budding musicians discover the art of improvisation and the magic of creating music on the spot. Join us for an unforgettable experience where every note played is a step towards mastering the language of jazz and embracing the spirit of collaboration. Let the music take you on a journey where creativity knows no bounds and the joy of swing fills the air.

This project is funded in part by the South Carolina Arts Commission, which receives support from the National Endowment for the Arts, and the S.C. Department of Education, which received funding from the American Rescue Plan Elementary and Secondary Schools Emergency Relief (ARP ESSER) funds.

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Jazz Combo Camp: Straight Eighths
2024-07-08 09:00 - 2024-07-12 15:30 | Charleston Jazz Academy, 3005 West Montague Avenue, Suite 200, North Charleston, SC, 29418, United States
Explore jazz improvisation in a fun, supportive environment!

July 8—12: Straight Eighths
Location: Charleston Jazz Academy
9:00AM-3:30PM

Embark on a musical journey like no other at Jazz Combo Camp, where we celebrate the diverse and vibrant world of jazz styles that don’t swing. From the electrifying energy of rock to the irresistible grooves of funk, and the passionate rhythms of Latin music, our camp is a melting pot of creativity and expression. Immerse yourself in the soul-stirring melodies, intricate harmonies, and infectious beats that define these genres. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or just beginning your musical exploration, Jazz Combo Camp promises to ignite your passion for music and expand your horizons in ways you never thought possible. Join us and discover the boundless possibilities of jazz beyond swing!

This project is funded in part by the South Carolina Arts Commission, which receives support from the National Endowment for the Arts, and the S.C. Department of Education, which received funding from the American Rescue Plan Elementary and Secondary Schools Emergency Relief (ARP ESSER) funds.

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Jazz Combo Camp: Stick with the Standards
2024-07-22 09:00 - 2024-07-26 15:30 | Charleston Jazz Academy, 3005 West Montague Avenue, Suite 200, North Charleston, SC, 29418, United States
Explore jazz improvisation in a fun, supportive environment!

July 22—26: Stick with the Standards
Location: Charleston Jazz Academy
9:00AM-3:30PM

At the Jazz Combo camp, students embark on a musical journey like no other, immersing themselves in the rich and vibrant world of jazz. Here, budding musicians expand their skills and delve deep into the forms most commonly used in jazz and popular music, discovering new rhythms, harmonies, and melodies that ignite their passion for creativity. From the soulful sounds of blues to the intricate structures of various song forms, students are exposed to a diverse range of styles that challenge and inspire them to reach new heights in their musical prowess. With each note played and each chord struck, these young talents not only hone their craft but also cultivate a deep appreciation for the artistry and innovation that define jazz music.

This project is funded in part by the South Carolina Arts Commission, which receives support from the National Endowment for the Arts, and the S.C. Department of Education, which received funding from the American Rescue Plan Elementary and Secondary Schools Emergency Relief (ARP ESSER) funds.

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Workshop with Stefon Harris
2024-10-14 18:00 - 19:30 | Charleston Jazz Academy, 3005 West Montague Avenue, Suite 200, North Charleston, SC, 29418, United States
Workshop: Stefon Harris
Charleston Jazz Academy
FREE – Open To All

We are thrilled to host vibraphonist Stefon Harris for this special workshop made possible by the National Endowment for the Arts. This event is free and open to the public.

ABOUT STEFON HARRIS
A Grammy-nominated artist signed to the prestigious Blue Note Records, Stefon Harris has garnered critical acclaim for his work, including his groundbreaking album, The Grand Unification Theory, which received the Martin E. Segal Award from Jazz at Lincoln Center. His collaborations with jazz legends like Diana Krall, Norah Jones, and Janis Siegle of the Manhattan Transfer highlight his versatility and stature within the jazz community. Additionally, Harris is a key member of the SFJazz Collective, showcasing his prowess as both a performer and a leader in contemporary jazz.

“One of the most important artists in jazz”
–Los Angeles Times

“The standout vibraphonist of his generation.”
– The New Yorker

Listening Shed
2024-11-07 18:30 - 19:30 | Charleston Jazz Academy, 3005 West Montague Avenue, Suite 200, North Charleston, SC, 29418, United States
Host: Demetrius Doctor
Charleston Jazz Academy
FREE – Open To All

The Listening Shed is an opportunity to shine a light on the most important aspect of understanding jazz: listening! It will be a chance for students and jazz lovers alike to experience how jazz professionals listen to and gain insights from music. Every Thursday in November (aside from Thanksgiving), we will have a professional from the community present records that have been impactful in their learning of this music. The musicians will highlight subtleties that may be easily missed, foundational elements of jazz, and specific aspects that each particular musician appreciates in this informal, fun gathering of musicians and enthusiasts. The “shed” is important for musicians—it’s where we work out our ideas and find our voice in this continuum. With the Listening Shed, we hope to bring that same significance to everyone’s first experience with this music!

Jazz Vespers
2024-11-10 18:00 - 19:00 | Circular Congregational Church, 150 Meeting Street, Charleston, 29401, United States
FREE EVENT
Circular Congregational Church
150 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29401

Join us at the historic Circular Congregational Church for “Jazz Vespers.” This service is held in memory of Jack McCray, one of the founders of Charleston Jazz. The Charleston Jazz Academy combo will provide music for the service. Invite your friends and family as this event is free and open to the public.

Listening Shed
2024-11-14 18:30 - 19:30 | Charleston Jazz Academy, 3005 West Montague Avenue, Suite 200, North Charleston, SC, 29418, United States
Host: Mark Sterbank
Charleston Jazz Academy
FREE – Open To All

The Listening Shed is an opportunity to shine a light on the most important aspect of understanding jazz: listening! It will be a chance for students and jazz lovers alike to experience how jazz professionals listen to and gain insights from music. Every Thursday in November (aside from Thanksgiving), we will have a professional from the community present records that have been impactful in their learning of this music. The musicians will highlight subtleties that may be easily missed, foundational elements of jazz, and specific aspects that each particular musician appreciates in this informal, fun gathering of musicians and enthusiasts. The “shed” is important for musicians—it’s where we work out our ideas and find our voice in this continuum. With the Listening Shed, we hope to bring that same significance to everyone’s first experience with this music!

Listening Shed
2024-11-21 18:30 - 19:30 | Charleston Jazz Academy, 3005 West Montague Avenue, Suite 200, North Charleston, SC, 29418, United States
Host: Robert Lewis
Charleston Jazz Academy
FREE – Open To All

The Listening Shed is an opportunity to shine a light on the most important aspect of understanding jazz: listening! It will be a chance for students and jazz lovers alike to experience how jazz professionals listen to and gain insights from music. Every Thursday in November (aside from Thanksgiving), we will have a professional from the community present records that have been impactful in their learning of this music. The musicians will highlight subtleties that may be easily missed, foundational elements of jazz, and specific aspects that each particular musician appreciates in this informal, fun gathering of musicians and enthusiasts. The “shed” is important for musicians—it’s where we work out our ideas and find our voice in this continuum. With the Listening Shed, we hope to bring that same significance to everyone’s first experience with this music!

JAZZ DAY FOR KIDS: Charleston Jazz Express
2025-01-21 11:00 - 12:00, 2025-01-22 11:00 - 12:00 | Charleston Gaillard Center, 95 Calhoun Street, Charleston, SC, 29401, United States
Experience the magic of jazz with Charleston Jazz and the Gaillard Center’s annual “Jazz Day for Kids” event! This dynamic educational program brings the vibrant world of jazz to life for students from Kindergarten through middle school. The concert will be hosted by the legendary Charlton Singleton, a two-time Grammy Award winner (Ranky Tanky) and Gaillard Center Artist-in-Residence Emeritus. Charlton’s charismatic presence and deep knowledge of jazz make this event an unforgettable experience for young audiences.
Jazz Day for Kids is a spectacular big band-style concert performed by the Charleston Jazz Express, under the expert direction of Robert Lewis, leader of the Charleston Jazz Orchestra and Director of Jazz Studies at the College of Charleston. This talented ensemble delivers an electrifying performance that showcases the rich heritage and diverse sounds of jazz music. Students will be enthralled by the lively rhythms and powerful improvisational solos that define this beloved genre. The concert is not just a feast for the ears; it’s an engaging educational journey that brings the history and culture of jazz to life while highlighting Charleston’s own contributions to the genre.
Through interactive elements and captivating storytelling, Charlton Singleton and the Charleston Jazz Express ensure that Jazz Day for Kids is both entertaining and enlightening. Students will learn about the roots of jazz, its evolution over the years, and its influence on other music styles. This program ignites a passion for music and creativity, inspiring the next generation of jazz enthusiasts. Join us for a day of fun, learning, and musical exploration that your students will remember for years to come!
Parents and teachers may enjoy sharing the history of jazz in Charleston with their students before the show to enhance their experience: READ ARTICLE

Jazz Jam
2025-03-23 17:00 - 18:30, 2025-04-27 19:30 - 21:00, 2025-06-29 17:00 - 18:30, 2025-07-27 17:00 - 18:30, 2025-08-31 17:00 - 18:30, 2025-09-28 17:00 - 18:30, 2025-10-26 17:00 - 18:30, 2025-11-23 17:00 - 18:30 and 4 more dates | Charleston Jazz Academy, 3005 West Montague Avenue, Suite 200, North Charleston, SC, 29418, United States
The Charleston Jazz Jam Session is a monthly session open to musicians of all ages. We invite students, adult learners, and professionals alike to hang together and perform in a welcoming, encouraging environment. There will be a signup list posted for each jam online along with “Community Tunes” for everyone to check out. With local professional rhythm section players ready to lay it down, we invite all Charleston area musicians to come and share in this great tradition of the music. Non-musicians that love a good jazz hang are also welcome, but space will be limited!

FREE—please RSVP above.
Photo Credit

Jazz Girls Day
2025-04-26 09:00 - 16:00 | Charleston Jazz Academy, 3005 West Montague Avenue, Suite 200, North Charleston, SC, 29418, United States
Charleston Jazz is pleased to partner with Dr. Colleen Clark and the University of South Carolina School of Music on Jazz Girls Day.
This workshop is designed to inspire girls to play jazz!
In collaboration with the University of South Carolina Department of Jazz, Charleston Jazz Academy proudly presents the annual Jazz Girls Day—an open invitation for middle and high school girls to join a day of masterclasses, meaningful connections, live performances, and an exciting jam session.
The mission of Jazz Girls Day is to inspire and empower young women through a day devoted to learning, playing, and performing jazz. This program not only welcomes girls to begin or continue their jazz journey but also encourages music educators to actively support and promote young women in jazz.
Open to all instrumentalists and vocalists—whether traditional or non-traditional, and at any skill level—Jazz Girls Day is an inclusive and supportive experience. The only requirement is that participants are middle or high school students who identify as female. Accompanying adults are warmly welcomed to join in the celebration!
FREE—please RSVP above.
Photo Credit

Jazz Combo Camp: Rhythms of the Caribbean
2025-06-02 - 2025-06-06 | Charleston Jazz Academy, 3005 West Montague Avenue, Suite 200, North Charleston, SC, 29418, United States
About Charleston Jazz Academy Summer Combo Camp
Charleston Jazz Academy’s Jazz Combo Camp is our signature summer program. The camp is designed to provide a fun and educational experience for young musicians who are interested in exploring the world of jazz music. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers topics such as improvisation, rhythm, music theory, and ensemble playing. Students will have the opportunity to work with experienced jazz musicians and educators who will help them develop their skills and build their confidence as performers. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced musician, the Jazz Combo Camp is a great way to improve your playing and make new friends who share your passion for jazz music.

Time: 9AM-3:30PM
Ages: 7th grade and up
Cost: $260
Dates: June 2-6: Rhythms of the Caribbean – Students will discover and play songs that feature popular Latin styles such as Afro-cuban, Samba, and Bossa Nova, as well as less known styles like Tumbao, Songo, and Mambo.
Masterclass with Etienne Charles & Vijay Iyer
Charleston Jazz Academy, in partnership with Spoleto Festival USA, is thrilled to offer an exclusive masterclass featuring world-renowned musicians Etienne Charles (trumpet) and Vijay Iyer (piano) during Summer Combo Camp – Week 1 (June 2-6).
This unique opportunity allows young musicians to learn from the best, refine their skills, and gain invaluable insights into jazz performance and improvisation. Don’t miss this chance to elevate your musicianship in an inspiring and collaborative environment.

Jazz Combo Camp: Classic Combos
2025-06-16 - 2025-06-20 | Charleston Jazz Academy, 3005 West Montague Avenue, Suite 200, North Charleston, SC, 29418, United States
About Charleston Jazz Academy Summer Combo Camp
Charleston Jazz Academy’s Jazz Combo Camp is our signature summer program. The camp is designed to provide a fun and educational experience for young musicians who are interested in exploring the world of jazz music. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers topics such as improvisation, rhythm, music theory, and ensemble playing. Students will have the opportunity to work with experienced jazz musicians and educators who will help them develop their skills and build their confidence as performers. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced musician, the Jazz Combo Camp is a great way to improve your playing and make new friends who share your passion for jazz music.

Time: 9AM-3:30PM
Ages: 7th grade and up
Cost: $260
June 16-20: Classic Combos – Messengers, Miles, and Modal: This week students will study the stylings of classic jazz combos through history including the Jazz Messengers, Mile’s Great Quintets, the John Coltrane Quartet and more.

Jazz Combo Camp: Port City Beats
2025-07-07 - 2025-07-11 | Charleston Jazz Academy, 3005 West Montague Avenue, Suite 200, North Charleston, SC, 29418, United States
About Charleston Jazz Academy Summer Combo Camp
Charleston Jazz Academy’s Jazz Combo Camp is our signature summer program. The camp is designed to provide a fun and educational experience for young musicians who are interested in exploring the world of jazz music. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers topics such as improvisation, rhythm, music theory, and ensemble playing. Students will have the opportunity to work with experienced jazz musicians and educators who will help them develop their skills and build their confidence as performers. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced musician, the Jazz Combo Camp is a great way to improve your playing and make new friends who share your passion for jazz music.

Time: 9AM-3:30PM
Ages: 7th grade and up
Cost: $260
July 7-11: Port City Beats – New Orleans/Second Line to Charleston/Gullah: This week students will dive into the rhythms of New Orleans and Charleston, playing and learning about both Second Line and Gullah music, and their connection.

Workshop with Chad LB
2025-10-14 18:30 - 19:30 | Charleston Jazz Academy, 3005 West Montague Avenue, Suite 200, North Charleston, SC, 29418, United States
Workshop: Chad LB
Charleston Jazz Academy
FREE – Open To All

Join world-renowned saxophonist Chad LB for an exclusive workshop at the Charleston Jazz Academy! Known for his electrifying performances with Chris Botti, the Village Vanguard Jazz Orchestra, and countless stages around the globe, Chad LB has established himself as one of the most exciting jazz voices of his generation.
In this interactive session, Chad will share insights into improvisation, tone, and phrasing, along with stories from his international career. Attendees will also have the opportunity to ask questions and learn directly from a master musician.
Whether you’re a student, educator, or jazz enthusiast, this workshop is an inspiring chance to deepen your understanding of jazz and connect with one of today’s leading artists. Feel free to bring your instrument!
Free | Open to the public, All ages + levels welcome

Jazz Day for Kids
2026-03-30 11:00 - 12:00, 2026-03-31 11:00 - 12:00 | Charleston Gaillard Center, 95 Calhoun Street, Charleston, SC, 29401, United States
Jazz Day for Kids

Jazz Day for Kids is an annual program presented by Charleston Jazz, in partnership with the Gaillard Center’s Education and Community Program. This interactive concert features the Charleston Jazz Express led by Maestro Robert Lewis and Grammy-winner Charlton Singleton, Gaillard Center Artist-in-Residence Emeritus. Designed for kindergarten through middle school students, this highly engaging performance will have students riveted to the stage as they sing and clap along, while learning about jazz history and exploring the rhythms and sounds of various instruments. They will experience the magic of how the musicians come together through teamwork to form the big band sound.

March 30–31, 2026 | 11:00 AM
Kindergarten–Eighth Grade

Jazz Girls Day 2026
2026-04-19 09:00 - 15:00 | Charleston Jazz Academy, 3005 West Montague Avenue, Suite 200, North Charleston, SC, 29418, United States
