OVERVIEW
The Westchester Youth Jazz Orchestra (WYJO) is a high-level youth jazz ensemble bringing together dedicated high school musicians from across the region for weekly rehearsals, performances, and jazz study at Manhattanville University.
Presented by Jazz Arts Collective, WYJO gives students the opportunity to rehearse and perform an ambitious range of jazz repertoire while developing ensemble skills, improvisation, musicianship, and experience in a professional-style big-band setting.
Throughout the year, students will also work with Jazz Arts Collective faculty, professional guest artists, and clinicians through masterclasses, sectionals, and special workshops under the direction of Dr. Peter Holsberg.
Students participating in WYJO will experience:
Weekly big band rehearsals focused on a wide range of jazz repertoire
Improvisation, jazz language, and musicianship incorporated into the ensemble experience
Guest artists and masterclasses with professional jazz musicians and educators
Concert and performance opportunities throughout the year
Preparation toward participation in spring festivals and competitions, including Essentially Ellington, the Mingus Competition, and the Fordham Jazz Festival
Participation is based on experience level and available instrumentation, with the goal of creating a strong, balanced ensemble. Students are encouraged to participate for the full season to build continuity within the ensemble and prepare for spring performances and festival opportunities.
Program Details
2026–2027 Season: October 6, 2026 – April 27, 2027
Schedule: Tuesdays, 5:00–7:00pm
Location: Manhattanville University, Purchase, NY
Eligibility: Instrumentalists in grades 9–12
Format: Weekly large jazz ensemble rehearsals, performances, masterclasses, and guest artist experiences
Tuition: Full Season – $1,095
Individual Cycles: Cycle I – $495 | Cycle II – $395 | Cycle III – $395
Financial Aid: Limited need-based financial aid is available
Placement: Based on experience level, submitted playing sample, and available instrumentation
