Jazz Institute at Brevard
June 2-12, 2026
Ages 14-29
Application deadline: March 15
Video - Shaping the Future of Jazz: Brevard's Faculty Perspective
Video - Brevard’s Jazz Magic: As Told by Students
Under the direction of Michael Dease, the Jazz Institute @ Brevard is committed to providing an authentic, immersive experience in the jazz aesthetic while refining the elements of musical and personal discipline, integrity, and passion. If you are seeking to take your musical abilities to the next level, look no further, you are in the right place.
Students will participate in big band / combo classes and performances, private lessons, recording sessions, and mentoring opportunities with world renowned faculty and guest artists.
Our all-star faculty are some of the busiest working professionals in the music industry and their talent is equaled in their teaching ability. They are here for you – our students. The great Dizzy Gillespie once said, “I always try to teach by example and not force my ideas on a young musician. One of the reasons we’re here is to be a part of this process of exchange.”
Days are packed with events including big band, quintets – sextets – septets – octets, professional recording sessions, masterclasses with guest artists, private lessons, jazz history, jazz theory, jam sessions, outreach concerts, and performances at the Brevard Music Center. Topics of study reach across the entire music industry and provide insight to playing all styles of music. There is something for everyone at every step of the way. Time off in the schedule allows for hiking, rafting, tubing, cook-outs, and exploring the scenic forests and waterfalls of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Jazz Institute at Brevard
June 2-12, 2026
Ages 14-29
Application deadline: March 15
Video - Shaping the Future of Jazz: Brevard's Faculty Perspective
Video - Brevard’s Jazz Magic: As Told by Students
Under the direction of Michael Dease, the Jazz Institute @ Brevard is committed to providing an authentic, immersive experience in the jazz aesthetic while refining the elements of musical and personal discipline, integrity, and passion. If you are seeking to take your musical abilities to the next level, look no further, you are in the right place.
Students will participate in big band / combo classes and performances, private lessons, recording sessions, and mentoring opportunities with world renowned faculty and guest artists.
Our all-star faculty are some of the busiest working professionals in the music industry and their talent is equaled in their teaching ability. They are here for you – our students. The great Dizzy Gillespie once said, “I always try to teach by example and not force my ideas on a young musician. One of the reasons we’re here is to be a part of this process of exchange.”
Days are packed with events including big band, quintets – sextets – septets – octets, professional recording sessions, masterclasses with guest artists, private lessons, jazz history, jazz theory, jam sessions, outreach concerts, and performances at the Brevard Music Center. Topics of study reach across the entire music industry and provide insight to playing all styles of music. There is something for everyone at every step of the way. Time off in the schedule allows for hiking, rafting, tubing, cook-outs, and exploring the scenic forests and waterfalls of the Blue Ridge Mountains
Jazz Institute at Brevard
June 2-12, 2026
Ages 14-29
Application deadline: March 15
Video - Shaping the Future of Jazz: Brevard's Faculty Perspective
Video - Brevard’s Jazz Magic: As Told by Students
Under the direction of Michael Dease, the Jazz Institute @ Brevard is committed to providing an authentic, immersive experience in the jazz aesthetic while refining the elements of musical and personal discipline, integrity, and passion. If you are seeking to take your musical abilities to the next level, look no further, you are in the right place.
Students will participate in big band / combo classes and performances, private lessons, recording sessions, and mentoring opportunities with world renowned faculty and guest artists.
Our all-star faculty are some of the busiest working professionals in the music industry and their talent is equaled in their teaching ability. They are here for you – our students. The great Dizzy Gillespie once said, “I always try to teach by example and not force my ideas on a young musician. One of the reasons we’re here is to be a part of this process of exchange.”
Days are packed with events including big band, quintets – sextets – septets – octets, professional recording sessions, masterclasses with guest artists, private lessons, jazz history, jazz theory, jam sessions, outreach concerts, and performances at the Brevard Music Center. Topics of study reach across the entire music industry and provide insight to playing all styles of music. There is something for everyone at every step of the way. Time off in the schedule allows for hiking, rafting, tubing, cook-outs, and exploring the scenic forests and waterfalls of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Jazz Institute at Brevard
June 2-12, 2026
Ages 14-29
Application deadline: March 15
Video - Shaping the Future of Jazz: Brevard's Faculty Perspective
Video - Brevard’s Jazz Magic: As Told by Students
Under the direction of Michael Dease, the Jazz Institute @ Brevard is committed to providing an authentic, immersive experience in the jazz aesthetic while refining the elements of musical and personal discipline, integrity, and passion. If you are seeking to take your musical abilities to the next level, look no further, you are in the right place.
Students will participate in big band / combo classes and performances, private lessons, recording sessions, and mentoring opportunities with world renowned faculty and guest artists.
Our all-star faculty are some of the busiest working professionals in the music industry and their talent is equaled in their teaching ability. They are here for you – our students. The great Dizzy Gillespie once said, “I always try to teach by example and not force my ideas on a young musician. One of the reasons we’re here is to be a part of this process of exchange.”
Days are packed with events including big band, quintets – sextets – septets – octets, professional recording sessions, masterclasses with guest artists, private lessons, jazz history, jazz theory, jam sessions, outreach concerts, and performances at the Brevard Music Center. Topics of study reach across the entire music industry and provide insight to playing all styles of music. There is something for everyone at every step of the way. Time off in the schedule allows for hiking, rafting, tubing, cook-outs, and exploring the scenic forests and waterfalls of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Jazz Institute at Brevard
June 2-12, 2026
Ages 14-29
Application deadline: March 15
Video - Shaping the Future of Jazz: Brevard's Faculty Perspective
Video - Brevard’s Jazz Magic: As Told by Students
Under the direction of Michael Dease, the Jazz Institute @ Brevard is committed to providing an authentic, immersive experience in the jazz aesthetic while refining the elements of musical and personal discipline, integrity, and passion. If you are seeking to take your musical abilities to the next level, look no further, you are in the right place.
Students will participate in big band / combo classes and performances, private lessons, recording sessions, and mentoring opportunities with world renowned faculty and guest artists.
Our all-star faculty are some of the busiest working professionals in the music industry and their talent is equaled in their teaching ability. They are here for you – our students. The great Dizzy Gillespie once said, “I always try to teach by example and not force my ideas on a young musician. One of the reasons we’re here is to be a part of this process of exchange.”
Days are packed with events including big band, quintets – sextets – septets – octets, professional recording sessions, masterclasses with guest artists, private lessons, jazz history, jazz theory, jam sessions, outreach concerts, and performances at the Brevard Music Center. Topics of study reach across the entire music industry and provide insight to playing all styles of music. There is something for everyone at every step of the way. Time off in the schedule allows for hiking, rafting, tubing, cook-outs, and exploring the scenic forests and waterfalls of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Jazz Institute at Brevard
June 2-12, 2026
Ages 14-29
Application deadline: March 15
Video - Shaping the Future of Jazz: Brevard's Faculty Perspective
Video - Brevard’s Jazz Magic: As Told by Students
Under the direction of Michael Dease, the Jazz Institute @ Brevard is committed to providing an authentic, immersive experience in the jazz aesthetic while refining the elements of musical and personal discipline, integrity, and passion. If you are seeking to take your musical abilities to the next level, look no further, you are in the right place.
Students will participate in big band / combo classes and performances, private lessons, recording sessions, and mentoring opportunities with world renowned faculty and guest artists.
Our all-star faculty are some of the busiest working professionals in the music industry and their talent is equaled in their teaching ability. They are here for you – our students. The great Dizzy Gillespie once said, “I always try to teach by example and not force my ideas on a young musician. One of the reasons we’re here is to be a part of this process of exchange.”
Days are packed with events including big band, quintets – sextets – septets – octets, professional recording sessions, masterclasses with guest artists, private lessons, jazz history, jazz theory, jam sessions, outreach concerts, and performances at the Brevard Music Center. Topics of study reach across the entire music industry and provide insight to playing all styles of music. There is something for everyone at every step of the way. Time off in the schedule allows for hiking, rafting, tubing, cook-outs, and exploring the scenic forests and waterfalls of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Jazz Institute at Brevard
Under the direction of Michael Dease, the Jazz Institute @ Brevard is committed to providing an authentic, immersive experience in the jazz aesthetic while refining the elements of musical and personal discipline, integrity, and passion. If you are seeking to take your musical abilities to the next level, look no further, you are in the right place.
Students will participate in big band / combo classes and performances, private lessons, recording sessions, and mentoring opportunities with world renowned faculty and guest artists.
Our all-star faculty are some of the busiest working professionals in the music industry and their talent is equaled in their teaching ability. They are here for you – our students. The great Dizzy Gillespie once said, “I always try to teach by example and not force my ideas on a young musician. One of the reasons we’re here is to be a part of this process of exchange.”
Days are packed with events including big band, quintets – sextets – septets – octets, professional recording sessions, masterclasses with guest artists, private lessons, jazz history, jazz theory, jam sessions, outreach concerts, and performances at the Brevard Music Center. Topics of study reach across the entire music industry and provide insight to playing all styles of music. There is something for everyone at every step of the way. Time off in the schedule allows for hiking, rafting, tubing, cook-outs, and exploring the scenic forests and waterfalls of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Jazz Institute at Brevard
June 2-12, 2026
Ages 14-29
Application deadline: March 15
Video - Shaping the Future of Jazz: Brevard's Faculty Perspective
Video - Brevard’s Jazz Magic: As Told by Students
Under the direction of Michael Dease, the Jazz Institute @ Brevard is committed to providing an authentic, immersive experience in the jazz aesthetic while refining the elements of musical and personal discipline, integrity, and passion. If you are seeking to take your musical abilities to the next level, look no further, you are in the right place.
Students will participate in big band / combo classes and performances, private lessons, recording sessions, and mentoring opportunities with world renowned faculty and guest artists.
Our all-star faculty are some of the busiest working professionals in the music industry and their talent is equaled in their teaching ability. They are here for you – our students. The great Dizzy Gillespie once said, “I always try to teach by example and not force my ideas on a young musician. One of the reasons we’re here is to be a part of this process of exchange.”
Days are packed with events including big band, quintets – sextets – septets – octets, professional recording sessions, masterclasses with guest artists, private lessons, jazz history, jazz theory, jam sessions, outreach concerts, and performances at the Brevard Music Center. Topics of study reach across the entire music industry and provide insight to playing all styles of music. There is something for everyone at every step of the way. Time off in the schedule allows for hiking, rafting, tubing, cook-outs, and exploring the scenic forests and waterfalls of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Jazz Institute at Brevard
June 2-12, 2026
Ages 14-29
Application deadline: March 15
Video - Shaping the Future of Jazz: Brevard's Faculty Perspective
Video - Brevard’s Jazz Magic: As Told by Students
Under the direction of Michael Dease, the Jazz Institute @ Brevard is committed to providing an authentic, immersive experience in the jazz aesthetic while refining the elements of musical and personal discipline, integrity, and passion. If you are seeking to take your musical abilities to the next level, look no further, you are in the right place.
Students will participate in big band / combo classes and performances, private lessons, recording sessions, and mentoring opportunities with world renowned faculty and guest artists.
Our all-star faculty are some of the busiest working professionals in the music industry and their talent is equaled in their teaching ability. They are here for you – our students. The great Dizzy Gillespie once said, “I always try to teach by example and not force my ideas on a young musician. One of the reasons we’re here is to be a part of this process of exchange.”
Days are packed with events including big band, quintets – sextets – septets – octets, professional recording sessions, masterclasses with guest artists, private lessons, jazz history, jazz theory, jam sessions, outreach concerts, and performances at the Brevard Music Center. Topics of study reach across the entire music industry and provide insight to playing all styles of music. There is something for everyone at every step of the way. Time off in the schedule allows for hiking, rafting, tubing, cook-outs, and exploring the scenic forests and waterfalls of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Jazz Institute at Brevard
June 2-12, 2026
Ages 14-29
Application deadline: March 15
Video - Shaping the Future of Jazz: Brevard's Faculty Perspective
Video - Brevard’s Jazz Magic: As Told by Students
Under the direction of Michael Dease, the Jazz Institute @ Brevard is committed to providing an authentic, immersive experience in the jazz aesthetic while refining the elements of musical and personal discipline, integrity, and passion. If you are seeking to take your musical abilities to the next level, look no further, you are in the right place.
Students will participate in big band / combo classes and performances, private lessons, recording sessions, and mentoring opportunities with world renowned faculty and guest artists.
Our all-star faculty are some of the busiest working professionals in the music industry and their talent is equaled in their teaching ability. They are here for you – our students. The great Dizzy Gillespie once said, “I always try to teach by example and not force my ideas on a young musician. One of the reasons we’re here is to be a part of this process of exchange.”
Days are packed with events including big band, quintets – sextets – septets – octets, professional recording sessions, masterclasses with guest artists, private lessons, jazz history, jazz theory, jam sessions, outreach concerts, and performances at the Brevard Music Center. Topics of study reach across the entire music industry and provide insight to playing all styles of music. There is something for everyone at every step of the way. Time off in the schedule allows for hiking, rafting, tubing, cook-outs, and exploring the scenic forests and waterfalls of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Jazz Institute at Brevard
June 2-12, 2026
Ages 14-29
Application deadline: March 15
Video - Shaping the Future of Jazz: Brevard's Faculty Perspective
Video - Brevard’s Jazz Magic: As Told by Students
Under the direction of Michael Dease, the Jazz Institute @ Brevard is committed to providing an authentic, immersive experience in the jazz aesthetic while refining the elements of musical and personal discipline, integrity, and passion. If you are seeking to take your musical abilities to the next level, look no further, you are in the right place.
Students will participate in big band / combo classes and performances, private lessons, recording sessions, and mentoring opportunities with world renowned faculty and guest artists.
Our all-star faculty are some of the busiest working professionals in the music industry and their talent is equaled in their teaching ability. They are here for you – our students. The great Dizzy Gillespie once said, “I always try to teach by example and not force my ideas on a young musician. One of the reasons we’re here is to be a part of this process of exchange.”
Days are packed with events including big band, quintets – sextets – septets – octets, professional recording sessions, masterclasses with guest artists, private lessons, jazz history, jazz theory, jam sessions, outreach concerts, and performances at the Brevard Music Center. Topics of study reach across the entire music industry and provide insight to playing all styles of music. There is something for everyone at every step of the way. Time off in the schedule allows for hiking, rafting, tubing, cook-outs, and exploring the scenic forests and waterfalls of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Sharp 9 Gallery
The Sistering (Lois Deloatch, Nnenna Freelon, Lenora Zenzalai Helm, Kate McGarry)
Two sets: 7 pm - 8:15 pm and 9 pm - 10:15 pm.
Get tickets: https://www.instantseats.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=buy.event&eventID=54C5D2C7-BBBE-5830-108D722CC41A8E98
Fresh off their acclaimed Carnegie Hall debut, The Sistering! returns to Durham for a soul-stirring night you won’t forget. Featuring the extraordinary voices of Lenora Zenzalai Helm, Lois Deloatch, Kate McGarry, and Nnenna Freelon, this powerhouse ensemble brings their chart-climbing album The Sistering to life with passion, harmony, and heart. Hailed as “the very best in jazz,” their music radiates love, connection, and emotional depth. Don’t miss an evening of breathtaking vocals and true musical sisterhood.
FYI, the 9pm show will have different music than the 7pm show. Consider getting tix to both shows :)
This performance is sponsored by Susan and Steve Pruskin
The Sistering @ Cuesta College
The Sistering is honored to participate in a residency with Cuesta College Vocal Jazz Festival, working with vocal ensembles for masterclasses and workshops, with evening concerts featuring the group on Saturday and Sunday.
Maine All State Jazz Festivals
Lenora will be the guest conductor for the SATB Maine All State Jazz Choir.
Berklee Performance Center w/Berklee Carnegie Hall Vocal & Instrumental Jazz Ensemble
Students from the Berklee Carnegie Hall Vocal & Instrumental Jazz Ensemble perform at the Berklee Performance Center, Boston.
Guest performers include the Tribe Jazz Orchestra singers & chamber jazz orchestra.
Carnegie Hall Concert as Guest Conductor
The event is an amazing opportunity to sing, perform, learn and share the great tradition of Jazz vocal music in a community of 125+ singers! Your students will perform on the Perelman Stage/Stern Auditorium, the largest Carnegie Hall Stage, in an event for which I will be honored to serve as the conductor.
This is my personal invite to you to join us!
Carnegie Hall Residency | Day 4
The event is an amazing opportunity to sing, perform, learn and share the great tradition of Jazz vocal music in a community of 125+ singers! Your students will perform on the Perelman Stage/Stern Auditorium, the largest Carnegie Hall Stage, in an event for which I will be honored to serve as the conductor.
This is my personal invite to you to join us!
Carnegie Hall Residency | Day 3
The event is an amazing opportunity to sing, perform, learn and share the great tradition of Jazz vocal music in a community of 125+ singers! Your students will perform on the Perelman Stage/Stern Auditorium, the largest Carnegie Hall Stage, in an event for which I will be honored to serve as the conductor.
This is my personal invite to you to join us!
Carnegie Hall Residency | Day 2
The event is an amazing opportunity to sing, perform, learn and share the great tradition of Jazz vocal music in a community of 125+ singers! Your students will perform on the Perelman Stage/Stern Auditorium, the largest Carnegie Hall Stage, in an event for which I will be honored to serve as the conductor.
This is my personal invite to you to join us!
Carnegie Hall Residency | Day 1
The event is an amazing opportunity to sing, perform, learn and share the great tradition of Jazz vocal music in a community of 125+ singers! Your students will perform on the Perelman Stage/Stern Auditorium, the largest Carnegie Hall Stage, in an event for which I will be honored to serve as the conductor.
This is my personal invite to you to join us!
Artist in Residence w/Sarasota Performing Arts
Lenora provides arts and cultural programs; events, workshops and concerts to the communities of Sarasota Performing Arts foundation, Sarasota, FL for their Artist-in-Residence Program.
Artist in Residence w/Sarasota Performing Arts
Lenora provides arts and cultural programs; events, workshops and concerts to the communities of Sarasota Performing Arts foundation, Sarasota, FL for their Artist-in-Residence Program.
Artist in Residence w/Sarasota Performing Arts
Lenora provides arts and cultural programs; events, workshops and concerts to the communities of Sarasota Performing Arts foundation, Sarasota, FL for their Artist-in-Residence Program.
Artist in Residence w/Sarasota Performing Arts
Lenora provides arts and cultural programs; events, workshops and concerts to the communities of Sarasota Performing Arts foundation, Sarasota, FL for their Artist-in-Residence Program.
Artist in Residence w/Sarasota Performing Arts
Lenora provides arts and cultural programs; events, workshops and concerts to the communities of Sarasota Performing Arts foundation, Sarasota, FL for their Artist-in-Residence Program.
Artist in Residence w/Sarasota Performing Arts
Lenora provides arts and cultural programs; events, workshops and concerts to the communities of Sarasota Performing Arts foundation, Sarasota, FL for their Artist-in-Residence Program.
Artist in Residence w/Sarasota Performing Arts
Lenora provides arts and cultural programs; events, workshops and concerts to the communities of Sarasota Performing Arts foundation, Sarasota, FL for their Artist-in-Residence Program.
Jazz Voice hosts Book Release Event/Sing Vocal Jazz Teach Vocal Jazz
Class Name: Book Release Event - Sing Vocal Jazz, Teach Vocal Jazz
Date: January 14, 2026
Time: 8:30PM ET
Duration: 1hr (or whatever you want)
Fee: $0 (and there will be no charge for people to come to the zoom)
Direct Link to Book Your Class: https://www.jazzvoice.com/service-page/book-release-event
Lenora talks about the new book, Sing Vocal Jazz, Teach Vocal Jazz on Routledge.
2026 Jazz Education Network Conference (Day 4)
Events at the 17th Annual Jazz Education Network Conference
2026 Jazz Education Network Conference (Day 3)
Events at the 17th Annual Jazz Education Network Conference
2026 Jazz Education Network Conference (Day 2)
Events at the 17th Annual Jazz Education Network Conference
2026 Jazz Education Network Conference
Events at the 17th Annual Jazz Education Network Conference
Jazz Voice Webinar - Nuts and Bolts of Chartwriting
Lenora reviews all of the details needed to understand Chart Writing skills needed by jazz vocalists, students and educators.
Class Name: The Nuts and Bolts of Chart Writing
Date: December 17, 2025
Time: 8:30PM ET
Duration: 45 min
Fee: $225
Direct Link to Book Class: https://www.jazzvoice.com/service-page/the-nuts-and-bolts-of-chart-writing
Communication University of Zhejiang
Cross aesthetic and interdisciplinary teaching in higher arts education and the GLOMUS collaboration
Seminar at CUZ 10-12. December 2025
Communication University of Zhejiang
Cross aesthetic and interdisciplinary teaching in higher arts education and the GLOMUS collaboration
Seminar at CUZ 10-12. December 2025
Communication University of Zhejiang
Cross aesthetic and interdisciplinary teaching in higher arts education and the GLOMUS collaboration
Seminar at CUZ 10-12. December 2025
Guest Conductor, PMEA, District 11 Jazz Festival (Day 2)
Pennsylvania Music Educators Association has invited Dr. Lenora Helm Hammonds as their Guest Conductor this year. Lenora will have the honor of directing the extraordinary talent of young jazz instrumental ensembles in workshops, rehearsals and culminating concerts.
Guest Conductor, PMEA, District 11 Jazz Festival (Day 1)
Pennsylvania Music Educators Association has invited Dr. Lenora Helm Hammonds as their Guest Conductor this year. Lenora will have the honor of directing the extraordinary talent of young jazz instrumental ensembles in workshops, rehearsals and culminating concerts.
The Sistering: Project Reveal
The Sistering (Nnenna Freelon, Lois DeLoatch, Kate McGarry and Lenora Zenzalai Helm) captures the pure magic that unfolds when four accomplished jazz artists come together to uplift and inspire one another—on and off the stage. This in-the-making collection features eleven powerful compositions: two penned by each artist, two co-written, and one imaginative reworking of a beloved jazz standard. Though still in progress, the music already reveals a beautifully interconnected journey through themes of family, love, loss, and badassery—rendering the project both a memoir and a cultural mirror.
Infused with soul, folk, funk, and spoken word, The Sistering ventures across wide musical terrain, with improvisation at its heart. Song titles like “Combat Boots and Glass Slippers” by Lenora, “Circle” by Kate, “Follow the Stream” by Lois, and “A Brother Just Like You” by Nnenna hint at the emotional depth and narrative spirit behind the music. As it continues to take shape, the project stands as a vibrant testament to the power of creative alliance—and it needs the support of those who love (and will come to love) the group and their music to be fully realized.
Test Event
Pennsylvania Music Educators Association has invited Dr. Lenora Helm Hammonds as their Guest Conductor this year. Lenora will have the honor of directing the extraordinary talent of young jazz instrumental ensembles.in workshops, rehearsals and culminating concerts.