Forty years ago, a group of dedicated jazz artists and jazz educators at UMass developed a program designed to connect jazz students with the country’s top jazz artist/educators for an intensive week of study in jazz improvisation. Their commitment to the art and culture of jazz led to the founding of Jazz in July Summer Music Programs — a concentrated two-week program during which participants immerse themselves in jazz improvisation under the guidance of the nation’s best jazz educators and artists.
As the jazz landscape evolves, Jazz in July builds on this foundation while embracing contemporary innovations. Today, cutting-edge jazz artists guide the program, ensuring that Jazz in July remains at the forefront of jazz education and continues to offer a relevant, inspiring experience for years to come.
Registration Payment for Jazz in July 2026
Registration will be $100.00 per person from 1/1/2026 until 5/31/2026. It will change to Late Registration $120.00 on 6/1/2026
Tuition Payment for Jazz in July 2026
Tuition will be available at the Early Rate ($528 1 Week, $1056 2 Weeks) from 1/1/2026 until 3/31/2026. It will change to full price on 4/1/2026 ($660 1 Week, $1,320 2 Weeks).
Performances!
Performing is an essential part of jazz, and our live performances give students the opportunity to play for the Amherst community. On Wednesdays, Club Jazz in July features vocalists and instrumental combos performing in a relaxed club atmosphere. Each week closes with Jazz Futures Concerts, featuring student combos and vocalists. The program concludes with the Jazz in July All Star Concert, where faculty members take the stage, demonstrating the artistry that inspires our students.
Faculty
Instrumental Faculty/Ensemble Coaches
Steve Johns, drums
Winard Harper, drums
Fumi Tomita, bass
Avery Sharpe, bass
Jeff Holmes, piano, trumpet, artistic director
Earl MacDonald, piano
Luis Perdomo, piano
Bob Ferrier, guitar
Haneef Nelson, trumpet
Steve Davis, trombone
Frank Newton, sax
Bruce Diehl, sax
Vocal Faculty
Dominique Eade, voice
Mitch Chakour, voice
Stephen Page, piano
Genevieve Rose, bass
Greg Caputo, drums
Jazz in July Alumni Panel
When you sign up for Jazz in July, you will be joining an illustrious network of current and former artist faculty and participants. The Jazz in July program involves instrumental/vocal master classes, group clinics, jazz theory and improvisation training, ensemble coaching, jam sessions, style explorations, combined lectures, and public performances by participants and faculty members alike. Regardless of the program you choose, we aim to connect your innovations with high quality educators and consequently inspire you to be a part of the jazz legacy that is Jazz in July.
Contact Information
Main Number: (413) 545-3530
Fax: (413) 545-0132
Jazz in July Administrative Director
David Picchi, (413) 545-4158
Email: jazzjuly@umass
Mailing Address:
Jazz in July
10 Curry Hicks
100 Hicks Way
University of Massachusetts Amherst
Amherst, MA 01003-9300
Sponsorship
Jazz in July is a program of the University of Massachusetts Fine Arts Center, sponsored in cooperation with the Department of Music & Dance with sponsorship from the College of Humanities and Fine Arts. Jazz in July is a patron member of the Jazz Education Network, and the Massachusetts Music Educators Association and Conference. Announced faculty and programs may change without notice.