The Community Arts Program (CAP) Miami Jazz Institute (MJI) offers serious, jazz-minded students an intensive immersion into the study of jazz history, harmony, ensemble practice, and one-on-one instrument study. The curriculum is designed to set the standard for a professionally-minded group of young jazz musicians who have a curiosity for all musical styles. CAP is a three-time, Jazz at Lincoln Center Essentially Ellington Competition Finalist!

BUILD SUCCESS!

  • Students’ success within the CAP MJI curriculum is built upon TWICE WEEKLY engagement.
  • Designed to NOT require a huge time commitment, but to champion creativity and determination at its best.

(1) MONDAY  CAP Jazz Ensemble PLUS rehearsal, with
(2) SATURDAY  CAP Harmony class

CLICK HERE, WHEN READY TO APPLY FOR THE CAP JAZZ ENSEMBLE PLUS 2026-2027 SEASON.

CAP Jazz Ensemble PLUS
A.K.A. “Not your typical school experience!”

MONDAYS: 6:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m. = Rehearsal
August 24, 2026-May 3, 2027

SATURDAYS: 10:30 a.m.-11:25 a.m. = CAP Harmony Class
September 19, 2026 -April 17, 2027

End-of-the-Year Family Concert = Sunday, May 9, 2027

Coral Gables Congregational United Church of Christ
3010 De Soto Boulevard 33134
(Across from the Biltmore Hotel.)

$450/yr.
(Non-refundable; due upon acceptance. More info, including scholarships, within the online application.)

As part of the Community Arts Program (CAP) Miami Jazz Institute Jazz Ensemble PLUS engages students from Miami-Dade County public and private schools, to express students’ diverse experiences through shared music learning and writing. The PLUS brings the key element of composition study that—in place of exploring solely standards—also encourages, builds, and showcases a growing portfolio and performance of students’ original compositions based on a variety of musical styles.

Highlights over recent years comprise radio shows on Miami’s WDNA 88.9 FM; performances at Jazz at Lincoln Center, within its Essentially Ellington; and The Moss Center black box theater concert series. Highlights also include opening for Preservation Hall Jazz Band (twice), Count Basie Orchestra, Catherine Russell, Tommy Dorsey Orchestra, Sherman Irby Quintet, Doc Severinsen, and Ken Peplowski, among others.

CAP Jazz Ensemble PLUS members sharpen skills in sight reading, playing and blending in sections, improv, rhythm, repertoire knowledge, and performance skills while working with CAP MJI Teaching Artists and associates, all among the finest pros.

In addition, members receive the unique opportunity to pique their understanding of jazz theory, extended theory, jazz history, extended history, and studio musicianship. CAP Jazz Ensemble PLUS members also engage in master classes with renowned artists and educators, and in workshops that focus on applying and auditioning for college.

Prerequisites for ALL Applicants 
-Students must be in grades 8-12 and between the ages of 13 & 18.
-Play one of the following instruments: saxophone, trumpet, trombone, piano, guitar, vibes, bass, drums (other instruments are considered).
-Currently study your instrument weekly with a private teacher. (If a private teacher is needed, an applicant can apply for that also through CAP, HERE.)
-Possess a functioning grasp of and desire for jazz as the basis for wider exploration. The CAP experience will open to other genres and styles. (The more you know, the more you’ll play throughout your musical life!)
-Commit to weekly rehearsal and class study.
-Possess a professional attitude.

“Audition” Requirements 
-Upon receipt of an application, CAP will set a time for an “audition”. (Stress-free with CAP!)
-The “audition” is very simply a time for the applicant to perform a prepared piece of their choosing. Basically, it’s a time to show CAP your best! : )
-Already composing your own music, or have ideas or themes you’d love to compose into music? Bring them, too!
-The creative journey with CAP begins with you! CAP’s goal is to make your creativity shine brightest, through the collaborative approach of all students.

Below are some areas that may be explored during an “audition”.
NOTE: The following do not make or break an “audition”. But if you have any, we’d love to hear them! 

–Scales: Major scales (2 octaves), chromatic scale (2 octaves), Concert F, Bb and Eb Blues scales, major and minor pentatonic scales.
–Sight Reading: Material may be taken from jazz standards, as well as jazz etudes.
–Audition Piece: A piece of the applicant’s choosing that shows CAP the applicant’s current best.

–Pianists/Guitarists may be asked to play the melody and comp through the changes as well as improvise over the form of a piece.
–Bassists may be asked to play the melody, followed by walking a bass line over the changes, as well as improvise a chorus or two;
–Drummers may be asked to demonstrate the following grooves: Rock, Shuffle, Latin, Swing, and Funk.
  Bring sticks and accessories (i.e., brushes, mallets, etc.).

–Blues & Rhythm Changes: May be asked to demonstrate a chorus of improvisation over both forms – Key of Bb.
–Saxophonists can demonstrate the ability to double (e.g., flute, clarinet). Indicate within the application those instruments on which you double;
–Brass players may be asked to demonstrate range and to possess a functional ability with accessories (e.g., plunger, mutes, etc.);
–Rhythm section may be asked to demonstrate a variety of grooves and tempi.

Questions? Any are welcomed and good!
Call or email: 305.448.7421, ext. 120 or info@CommunityArtsProgram.org