KCCK hosts middle school jazz band camp

KCCK-FM, the jazz public radio station operated by Kirkwood Community College, will once again offer Middle School Jazz Band Camp July 12-16 for students entering grades 6-9.

The camp will take place on the Kirkwood campus in Cedar Rapids. Students will receive instruction from a faculty of high school and college band directors, along with professional private jazz instructors. Topics covered will include music theory, big band, jazz combo, jazz history and private lessons. The week will conclude with a concert in Kirkwood¡»s Ballantyne Auditorium on July 16.

The purpose of the camp is to:

* Introduce students to playing jazz, both in ensemble and combo configurations;

* Enhance their middle school band experience and prepare them for high school jazz band; and

* Give students the opportunity to learn from, and play alongside jazz teachers and educators, as well as professional musicians from the community.

All brass, woodwinds, and rhythm section instruments are welcome. Tuition is $249 and includes all classes, teaching materials, a Jazz Camp T-Shirt and CD of the final concert. A meal plan is available. Scholarships are also available.

More information is available at http://kcck.org/jazz_band_camp.php or by calling (319) 398-5446.

[PHOTO: Area music educator Al Naylor (dark shirt) guides the sax section during the 2009 KCCK/Kirkwood Middle School Jazz Band Camp.]