Giant Steps Day Camp - Stanford Jazz

Giant Steps Day Camp: July 6 – 10, 2026

Giant Steps Day Camp: July 6 - 10, 2026

The Next Step on Your Musical Path

Step Into the World of Jazz
Open to middle school students in grades 5–8, Giant Steps Day Camp is a five-day introduction to jazz and improvisation in a fun, supportive environment. Each day features masterclasses, small-group sessions, and hands-on music-making, with optional after-camp activities and jam sessions to keep the music going.

A Unique Campus Experience
Giant Steps gives middle school musicians a week-long journey into jazz on the Stanford University campus. Students learn from world-class artists, play alongside talented peers from across the Bay Area, and grow in a dynamic and inspiring setting.

Built for Middle School Musicians
At this exciting stage of development, young players thrive with guidance from expert faculty who specialize in teaching this age group. Our teachers create a balance of challenge and encouragement, helping every camper gain confidence and musicianship.

Your week at Giant Steps Day Camp includes:

Daily Master Classes

Strengthen technique, expand your jazz vocabulary, and gain new insights from expert faculty.

Music Theory

Explore the foundations of jazz — harmony, rhythm, and scales — and learn how to apply them creatively in your playing.

Improvisation

Discover your own voice through guided exercises that build confidence and spontaneity.

Ensemble Playing

Perform in both big bands and small ensembles, learning how to listen, interact, and lead.

The Roots of Jazz

Connect with the history and cultural traditions of jazz, exploring the music and stories of pioneering artists.

A Supportive Environment

Grow as a musician in a safe, inclusive, and encouraging community designed especially for middle schoolers.

A Community of Musicians

Join a network of dedicated young musicians, forging lasting connections that extend beyond the program.

Final Performance Showcase

Celebrate your progress by performing with your ensemble for family and friends.

A Place for Every Young Musician
Whether you’re just beginning to explore jazz or already building your skills, Giant Steps offers an ensemble for you. With combos, masterclasses, and big bands tailored to different levels, every student can discover new possibilities, make friends, and experience the joy of music-making.

Program details

Giant Steps Ages Giant Steps Dates and Times Giant Steps Location Giant Steps Tuition Giant Steps Placement Recording Giant Steps Accepted Instruments

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Giant Steps Day Camp is for students in grades 5–8 during the 2025-26 school year

Giant Steps Day Camp classes and programs occur during the following hours:

July 6 – 10, Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Showcase performance on Friday, July 10: 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Supervision and late pickup option from 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. is available.

All classes and performances are held at the Braun Music Center on the Stanford University campus, 541 Lasuen Mall, Stanford, CA 94305.

Tuition for five days of instruction: $1,000
Catered lunch for five days: $125
Supervision and late pickup: $250

Financial aid is available; you may apply for financial aid during the online registration process. Click for details on program pricing.

There is no audition required for Giant Steps Day Camp. After you register, you’ll receive instructions for submitting a short recording of your playing, along with an easy questionnaire. These materials help us place you in the classes and ensembles that best match your experience and support your growth.

Experience reading music and at least one year of instruction on your instrument is required.

Giant Steps accepted instruments include:

Brass instruments including trumpet and trombone
Woodwinds including clarinet and saxophone
Rhythm section instruments including guitar, piano, keyboards, vibraphone, bass, drums

Experience reading music and at least one year of instruction on your instrument is required.