NOJO has partnered with the Institute and UNO Jazz Studies program to develop a pre-professional touring band called the University of New Orleans Jazz Orchestra, UNOJO. The band is comprised primarily of UNO students and will also reach out to include other young musicians from the broader New Orleans music community. This project is an important artist development initiative for the future of NOJO specifically, and New Orleans Jazz in general. The rigorous training of UNOJO will prepare students for a possible future of performing with the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra and other professional performance opportunities. SATURDAY MUSIC SCHOOL UNO Music Education faculty, UNO Charter schools and NOJI will develop a Saturday School Music Education project, which will start Fall of 2009. The program will include 40 students, ages 8-14 for 24 weeks of individualized music instruction and participation in two music ensembles. A special initiative to engage the interest and participation of beginning level students from UNO Charter School students will be one of the project's primary focuses. Students will also be recruited City-wide for participation in lessons and ensemble opportunities. At the end of each semester, students and their teachers will perform for their families and the community. |