
Education and the Community
Recognizing that the Telluride Jazz Celebration is music education of the highest order, Executive Director Paul Machado utilizes his artistic line-up to bring first-rate musical opportunities to the somewhat isolated Telluride region both during the Jazz Celebration week and year round. The original programs evolved into five distinct areas of interest:
1. Telluride Student All-Stars Jazz Ensemble
For the
serious student, this program is directed by renowned jazz educator
and performer Professor Bob Montgomery. A national talent search is
conducted for students age 13 and up via audition tapes. Students selected
receive full scholarships to this special weeklong program held August 2-8. The All-Stars typically number from 8 to 10 students and
work together throughout the week developing their skills as future
professionals, and performing nightly at a club in town and on the Telluride
Jazz Celebration Main Stage during the weekend. Additional funding for
air transportation, lodging, meals, and festival passes is available
on a limited basis. [Invitation to Audition]
2. Jazz Workshop and Clinic Series
For all ages and abilities,
these clinics welcome those wishing to learn more in their specific
area of interest. Clinics feature a world class artist who is in Telluride
to perform instructing a limited number of students in his or her craft,
whether it be voice, strings, horns or percussion.
3. Winter Jazz/Artists in the Schools Series
These programs
take place January through March and involve two evening performances
and three interactive student performances. The Telluride Society for
Jazz brings world class musicians, frequently who have been or will
be featured at the Jazz Celebration, to perform in the winter. The artists
perform locally at the Michael D. Palm Theatre or Sheridan Opera House
in the evening. The day of their performance they give an informal concert
for regional middle and high school students. The program includes a
question and answer session and the musicians explain their roots, how
long they have been playing, and what Jazz is all about.
5. Raynier Free Stage
The site of all free performances
in Elks Park is also host to a panel discussion that includes educators,
artists, and Telluride Jazz representatives who choose a timely topic
pertaining to the Jazz world. The audience is invited to participate
in an informal Q and A. The Raynier Free Stage hosts at least 14 performances
over the Jazz Celebration week and boasts the only performances on Thursday
evening to open the Celebration to the community and visitors.
