• Press/external:
    “The sweet sound of jazz is making a young band
    one of the hottest properties on the local
    music scene.”

    “They are as crisp and talented a band as you could hope for.”
  • Tutors:
    “We want to make our music as original as we can
    and move with the times. If the orchestra is enjoying
    itself, this will reflect on the audience.”
    Geoff Miller, former KYJO director
  • Band members:
    ‘The people at KYJO are great and I love playing at
    gigs, especially being put on the spot when
    I get the chance to solo.’
    Ben, tuba

    ‘The gigs are awesome, really amazing to play in
    a variety of venues and not just a school hall.
    I’ve learnt so much from the tutors and MDs.
    Come along to a gig... you won’t regret it!!’
    Richard, trumpet and flugelhorn
  • Members’ parents:
    ‘Graham and Mike supply a cocktail of vital magic
    ingredients – inspiration, expertise, support,
    encouragement and energy – helping our son to
    move beyond his classical training at just the right pace. In less than two years he has gained so much confidence and really grown as a musician.
    Learning to improvise is, both liberating and exhilarating - he comes offstage buzzing after
    every solo.
    Yes, even tuba players get the chance, if they want it!'
    Fran Broady, parent
  • Members’ parents:
    ‘It is fantastic to see Richard in KYJO. I remember
    the sense of fun, playing enjoyment and learning I
    had with Geoff Miller when I was in the band. From
    Richard’s enthusiasm for rehearsing and playing at
    gigs it is obvious he is now having the same experiences as me and best of all he is learning and
    growing as a musician.’
    Ian Blake, parent

Kent Youth Jazz Orchestra recently presented a Concert in Memory of Mike Taylor; and were joined by many ex-KYJO players, as well as special guests Derek Nash and Scott Garland on saxophones, and Steve Waterman and Sid Gould on trumpets. The recording from this concert can now be purchased as a CD or DVD.

Support KYJO

The cost of regular rehearsals and tuition with Kent Youth Jazz Orchestra is covered by membership fees paid termly by the players (or their parents). However, in order to cover the cost of a programme of special events – open workshops with guest tutors, performances at local theatres and special events with high profile guest soloists – we seek sponsorship from local authorities and companies.

Workshops

We undertake workshops in the form of “open” rehearsals across the county. Where possible, these are linked with arts festivals such as the Canterbury and Sevenoaks Festivals or local schools with proven interest in jazz. Funding is required to cover the cost of tutors, venues and administration.

Theatres

Each term we aim to perform at one of Kent’s top venues such as the Hazlitt, Brook, Stag or Marlowe theatres. These are normally joint concerts with another high profile band or famous guest soloists. In 2012, we performed at the Brook Theatre, Chatham with Derek Nash, front line sax with the Jools Holland Rhythm and Blues Orchestra plus Steve Waterman, top professional trumpet/flugel and jazz educationalist. As part of the Sevenoaks Festival, we are currently negotiating a joint concert with the National Youth Jazz Orchestra at the Stag Theatre. Whilst we would hope to cover the majority of costs from ticket sales, these are major commitments needing significant financial support.

Tours

Over the years, Kent Youth Jazz Orchestra has developed links with bands and music schools in France and Germany and been invited to take part in Festivals across Europe. Travel costs are normally covered by the tour fee paid by players. These events are normally “exchange visits”, where we need support for accommodation costs and performance opportunities when our exchange partner visits Kent.

Equipment

Sponsorship would also be welcome to cover the cost of using lighting and sound equipment at professional venues and to keep the band’s own pa system up to date.

If you are interested in sponsoring KYJO, please contact donnastringer@intamail.com for further information.

Next Gigs

1st June 2013

KYJO

Boughton Monchelsea Summer Fete

26th June 2013

KYJO Workshop

The Stag Theatre, Sevenoaks

28th July 2013

KYJO Reunion

New Ash Green RFC