The Minnesota Jazz Student “Sit-In” Performance Series

ALL MUSIC STUDENTS of jazz (vocal and instrumental) of ALL ages and skills/abilities are invited to perform (or "sit-in") with top Twin Cities professional jazz musicians.

The MNHBC Jazz Student "Sit-In Series" embodies jazz's original learning tradition—student musicians developing their craft through direct performance experience WITH professionals. This groundbreaking program, unique worldwide, invites students of all ages and skill levels to perform alongside seasoned professionals every Monday at MetroNOME's Fingal's Cave, creating the longest and only steady, union-waged gig in the Twin Cities. Here, the spirit of jazz education comes full circle, where emerging musicians enhance their classroom and private instruction training through spontaneous live performance of a collection of Jazz Standards that are the building blocks to Jazz Improvisation, keeping alive an essential tradition for the next generation of jazz artists.

Today's MNHBC Faculty are Bryan Murray on Tenor Saxophone, Ian Duerr on Guitar, Abebi Stafford on B3 Organ, and Jesse Simon on Drums and Percussion.

We encourage EVERYONE to join us regardless of age and or skill level.

ADVANCED STUDENTS, especially those who are interested in music school, can further their college track by getting help with:

• Transcribing or learning famous solos to play with the pros.

• Learning how to arrange and provide transposed charts for a band (some colleges require this).

• Receiving individualized assistance with preparing music college applications, essays, and auditions.

COLLEGE AUDITION/APPLICATION PREP/TRACK: This program will help prepare your students for college auditions, and provide a new challenge for students who want to expand their. knowledge of jazz. The experience is similar to high school prep programs at conservatories - but unlike those programs is FREE!

This is the only program of its kind right now - right here in Minnesota!

MISSION: The SIT IN SERIES aims to provide a formal opportunity for music students to perform with and learn directly from experienced professional Jazz musicians with the goal of providing students with performance skills and confidence building that is not available in the classroom or open mic jam sessions.