M.C.M.A. Launches Jazz Institute
Finlay Develops Exciting New Programs, Performances
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 7, 2005
WINNIPEG - Helping cement Winnipeg's place as the Jazz Capital of Canada, the Manitoba Conservatory of Music & Arts is unveiling the Conservatory Jazz Institute, featuring a number of new educational programs and courses for jazz lovers of all levels, from non-musicians to seasoned performers.
The new roster of programs was developed by Jazz Institute Program Coordinator (and 2004 Xerox Jazz Educator of the Year) Janice Finlay. This award-winning performer and teacher has expanded the Conservatory's Jazz component with classes and performances to inspire and enhance Winnipeg's vibrant jazz community.
"From beginners to experienced musicians, the Conservatory Jazz Institute has something for everyone," said Finlay. "we're adding a number of new initiatives, including Jazz Composition courses, monthly Cafe Jazz Coffee Houses and the Destination Jazz School Workshop Program. There's nothing quite like this anywhere else in Canada!"
Along with classes, instrumental combos and special events, the Jazz Institute is home to an unparalleled faculty of teachers offering individual instruction. Three new instructors will start at the Jazz Institute in September, joining current Jazz Instructors Finlay (woodwinds), Jodie Borle (voice), Rick Boughton (piano), Frank Burke (trumpet), Steve Hamilton (bass) and Patrick Lussier (guitar). Jay Harrison (trombone), Jordy McIntyre (drums) and Jeff Presslaff (jazz composition) will be added to the faculty for the 2005/06 school year.
A news conference detailing more information about the Jazz Institute and its fall programming will take place at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 8 at the Manitoba Conservatory Recital Hall, 211 Bannatyne Avenue. Finlay will be in attendance, along with Conservatory Executive Director Terry Welsh and a number of students from Finlay's wildly successful Jazz Appreciation course, which is wrapping up its spring session later in the evening.
The news conference will also kick off the search for Manitoba's next Jazz sensation, with the launch of the Conservatory's annual CanWest Global Jazz Scholarship series. These tuition scholarships offer a full year of individual instruction at the Conservatory and are awarded to music students who, through an audition process, show a passion for jazz and potential for artistic growth. Application forms and details are available at the Conservatory Student Services office (943-6090 or info@mcma.ca).
Established in 1984, the Manitoba Conservatory of Music & Arts is an independent, non-profit school of music. The Conservatory offers quality instruction to students of all ages, from beginner to advanced levels.