The entire experience was wonderful! She had a great time learning music and making new friends. Thank you!
~ Giant Steps Day Camp parent

For middle school musicians (including those entering middle school in fall of 2024)

Prerequisite: 12 months instruction

July 8– July 12, 2024
9:00am – 3:00pm

Stanford University Campus

Lunch option
Supervised late pick-up option

Program Highlights

Tailored to experience and ability
Led by world-class jazz artists and educators

Program Focus

Big band, small ensemble, vocal ensemble
Beginning improvisation
Jazz styles
Instrumental and vocal technique
Showcase performances on Friday

Tuition: $895

Registration opens November 19

Vocal Programs Available

Giant Steps Day Camp

Our fun summer day program is perfect for young musicians who are curious about jazz as well as those who have had some jazz experience. Taught by instructors who specialize in middle school education, Giant Steps Day Camp is packed with musical activities that develop creativity, emphasize good instrumental and vocal skills, and build a solid foundation in jazz styles — an excellent preparation for attending Jazz Camp in the future, or for playing in our Giant Steps Big Band, or for playing in a school big band or combo! There will be time for enjoyable outdoor activities on the beautiful campus of Stanford University.

Each student will be involved in a variety of activities that emphasize the fundamentals of good musicianship while introducing concepts of jazz phrasing, articulation and improvisation. Daily master classes give students instruction on their own instruments or voice type, focusing on fundamentals such as good tone and technique. Each student will exercise their creativity through soloing and improvising in a small ensemble, and they’ll experience the excitement of large ensemble jazz, too. Special classes for vocalists and string instrumentalists introduce those students to the world of jazz.