On International Women’s Day, WAYJO celebrates eight years of presenting the Young Women in Jazz in Western Australia – an 8-week workshop program open to female identifying instrumentalists aged 14 – 25 who have an interest in jazz and improvised music.
“This course suits young women who are new to improvisation, plus more experienced musicians wanting to add to their skill set. It is a series of workshops for young women and people of marginalised genders to learn about jazz improvisation and small ensemble performance alongside likeminded peers and supportive, experienced tutors.” Program coordinator Gemma Farrell.
Starting April 30, Saturday afternoon workshops will be conducted at the West Australian Academy of Performing Arts (on the ECU Mt Lawley campus) in small groups by leading female educators, WAYJO Alumnae, plus special guest artists. The workshop culminates in the exploration of newly found skills before an audience at Lyric’s Underground, Sunday 26 June.
“I really liked how it was a comfortable, ensemble environment where it was okay and accepted to make mistakes. During the workshops, my ensemble would always crack jokes, but rehearse efficiently and learn about the different ways to approach jazz standards and improvisation. During the workshops we had some really cool guest artists visit like Jessica Carlton, Talya Valenti, Alana Macpherson, and Sue Bluck.… I made some great connections with people that I now play with at gigs, and will go on to study with at WAAPA.” 2021 participant, Valentina Macias.
Registrations for Young Women in Jazz 2022 do not require audition and now close Friday 22 April, 5.00pm AWST – only if not filled prior. Places are limited to 50 participants, so book soon to avoid disappointment.
For more information about WAYJO’s Young Women in Jazz program, please visit wayjo.com/young-women-in-jazz
Young Women in Jazz is part of WAYJO’s Pathways Education Program, supported by Healthway promoting the Act Belong Commit message, and our Major Partner Minderoo Foundation
WAYJO also acknowledges program partners SIMA (Sydney Improvised Music Association), St John of God Health Care, and venue support from the Western Australia Academy of Performing Arts (Edith Cowan University).
Hashtags: #WAYJO2022 #YoungWomenInJazz #ActBelongCommit #IWD2022 #BreakTheBias
Photograph: 2021 Young Women in Jazz Concert by Izzy La Cunza
Contacts:
Gemma Farrell
WAYJO YWIJ Program Coordinator
education@wayjo.com
+61 8 9471 1950
Justine Thornley
WAYJO Marketing
marketing@wayjo.com
+61 8 9471 1950