The Trinity Jazz Orchestra is very active in several local high schools with what we call the Visiting Artist in Residence

The Trinity Jazz Orchestra is very active in several local high schools with what we call the Visiting Artist in Residence (VAR) program. In a VAR, we help arrange for a prominent, world-class jazz artist to visit a high school for an entire week. During that week, the artist works with students in the school's instrumental music program. At the end of the week, the artist performs a public concert with the high school jazz ensemble and the Trinity Jazz Orchestra. Considerable attention is paid to elementary students who are the future of every school's music program.

Below, we will provide some information about the guests that we have hosted. We urge you to visit their websites and consider using them in guest artists in your schools.

After my third opportunity to work with TJO, I can say that I am proud to be associated with this wonderful group, and to have become friends with them over the years. Their contribution to jazz education is both important to the students as well as to the future of jazz.

"I recently spent a week with the Trinity Jazz Orchestra and the New Brighton High School Jazz Band, as part of their artist outreach program. It was a very rewarding week, musically and personally. The members of the TJO are passionate about jazz and jazz education, and the students and adult players were very receptive to everything I had to offer. The concerts were well-received, and the food was spectacular! I am looking forward to a return appearance!"

Ralph Lalama of the Village Vanguard Jazz Orchestra and adjunct professor at New York University and SUNY Purchase.

Being a part of the Visiting Artist Program at New Brighton was an exceptionally gratifying way to see the spirit of jazz in action. The kids were eager and willing to grasp the lofty goals put before them. They appreciate what it takes to grow in this music and they're not afraid to go for it. This speaks volumes about the importance of the Visiting Artist Program. Jazz is a national treasure, THE original American musical form, and it's up to us as musical patriots to cultivate and nurture it. Being from the Beaver Valley, I appreciate and am proud of the organization, the dedication and musical offerings of the Trinity Jazz Orchestra.