The Minnesota Jazz Student “Sit-In” Performance Series

Mondays @ 7pm

Tuesday - Thursday @ 4:30pm

@ MetroNOME Brewery in St. Paul

ALL MUSIC STUDENTS of jazz (vocal and instrumental) of ALL ages and skills/abilities are invited to perform (or "sit-in") with top Twin Cities professional jazz musicians.

EACH STUDENT will have the opportunity to: Perform (or sit-in - just like in a college audition) INDIVIDUALLY with Omar Abdulkarim on Trumpet, Phil Aaron/Ted Godbout on Piano, Tom Lewis on Bass, and Phil Hey on Drums (all pros are current members of the AFM Twin Cities Musicians Union Local 30-73) followed by a brief critique and suggestions of further preparation.

ADVANCED STUDENTS, especially those who are interested in music school, can further their college track by getting help with:

  • Transcribing or learning famous solos to play with the pros.

  • Learning how to arrange and provide transposed charts for a band (some colleges require this).

  • Receiving individualized assistance with preparing music college applications, essays, and auditions.

COLLEGE AUDITION/APPLICATION PREP/TRACK: This program will help prepare your students for college auditions, and provide a new
challenge for students who want to expand their. knowledge of jazz. The experience is similar to high school prep programs at conservatories - but unlike those programs is FREE!

This is the only program of its kind right now - right here in Minnesota!

MISSION: The SIT IN SERIES aims to provide a formal opportunity for music students to perform with and learn directly from experienced
professional Jazz musicians with the goal of providing students with performance skills and confidence building that is not available in the classroom or open mic jam sessions.

MetroNOME Brewery

385 Broadway St, St Paul, MN 55101
Entrance on Broadway St.

 

What is “Sitting-In”?

Sitting in is not the same as a "jam session". A musician's definition of "sitting in" is to participate in a working group, as a guest, usually to play a couple of songs. This usually occurs at the invitation of someone in the band. This is how Jazz Musicians typically audition and introduce one another.

Every working musician has a story about when they "sat in" and either got or didn't get a gig. It is an essential skill for anyone pursuing a career as a Jazz Musician. The mission of this performance series is to provide a formal opportunity for music students to sit in with professional Jazz Musicians, which aims to help teach students performance skills and confidence building that is not available in the classroom or open mic jam sessions.

Students can just show up with their instruments although we prefer some advanced notice via our online signup sheet.

All concerts are free, ADA Accessible, and open to the public!