Thank you for your interest in the 2nd Annual Plainfield School District 202 Summer Jazz Camp! We plan to offer an exciting and enjoyable summer learning and performing opportunity for all 7th-12th grade students involved in band throughout Plainfield School District 202. This Summer, the camps will be led by Mr. Kazda (Plainfield Central High School) and Mr. Schmitt (John F. Kennedy Middle School).
This Summer, we will be offering three different sessions: Beginning Jazz Band Session, Advanced Jazz Band Session, and Jazz Combo Session. The dates of the camp will take place the final two weeks of June, and all rehearsal sessions will take place at Plainfield Central High School.
By registering for the camp, students will receive over 12 hours of quality jazz instruction in a fun environment, meet new friends and build connections with students throughout the district, learn new and engaging repertoire, perform in a combined concert, and receive a brand new camp T-shirt. For more details for each specific session that is offered, please see the information below.
Beginning Jazz Band Session Information
Dates: 6/16, 6/17, 6/18, 6/23, 6/24, 6/25, 6/26
Time: 9am-10:45am
Location: Plainfield Central HS Choir Room (24120 Fort Beggs Dr, Plainfield, IL 60544)
Instructor: Mr. Dan Schmitt
Price: $100
Register by: Friday May 16th, 2025 at 4PM
The Beginning Jazz Session of the Plainfield 202 Summer Jazz Camp is designed for incoming 7th, 8th, and 9th grade students who are new to jazz or looking to build a strong foundation. Students will learn essential jazz concepts, including ensemble playing and jazz style, in a fun and supportive environment. Through guided instruction and group rehearsals, they will develop confidence and skills to grow as jazz musicians. There is no audition required for this session.
Advanced Jazz Band Session Information
Dates: 6/16, 6/17, 6/18, 6/23, 6/24, 6/25, 6/26
Time: 9am-10:45am
Location: Plainfield Central HS Band Room (24120 Fort Beggs Dr, Plainfield, IL 60544)
Instructor: Mr. Ryan Kazda
Price: $100
Register by: Friday May 16th, 2025 at 4PM
The Advanced Jazz Session of the Plainfield 202 Summer Jazz Camp is designed for incoming 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students looking to refine their jazz skills and deepen their understanding of the genre. Focused on ensemble communication and stylistic interpretation, this session challenges students to elevate their musicianship. Through rehearsals, participants will expand their jazz vocabulary and gain valuable experience in a dynamic, collaborative setting. If incoming 9th graders would like to audition into the Advanced Session, they must submit a video of the Selected Snidero Etude for review. All auditions/submission videos are due Friday May 16th at 4PM. Submit audition videos to Mr. Kazda via email at rkazda@psd202.org. Incoming 10th-12th grade students do not have to submit an audition video. All audition material is found here:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/15g9sCXHDZMBgMy86X22N9PxkinjeUV7R?usp=sharing
Combo Session Information
Dates: 6/16, 6/17, 6/18, 6/23, 6/24, 6/25, 6/26
Time: 11am-12pm
Location: Plainfield Central HS Band Room & Choir Room (24120 Fort Beggs Dr, Plainfield, IL 60544)
Instructor: Mr. Ryan Kazda & Mr. Dan Schmitt
Price: $50
Register By: Friday May 16th, 2025 at 4PM
The Combo Session of the Plainfield 202 Summer Jazz Camp offers incoming 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students an opportunity to perform in a small-group jazz setting, focusing on improvisation, interplay, and musical expression. Designed for those seeking an extra challenge, this session requires an audition and provides a more intimate environment for developing advanced jazz techniques. Those that are interested in participating in the combo must also be enrolled in the Advanced Jazz Band Session.
The Audition includes performing two choruses of a 12-Bar F Blues Improvisation with a backing track, demonstrating creativity, phrasing, and stylistic awareness. Additionally, students will perform a selected Jazz Standard, showcasing their technical ability, tone, and overall musicianship. Participants will refine their improvisational skills, explore diverse jazz styles, and collaborate closely with fellow musicians in a dynamic, high-level setting. All auditions/submission videos are due Friday May 16th at 4PM. Submit audition videos to Mr. Kazda via email at rkazda@psd202.org. No one will be denied access to the Combo session based on their audition. The audition is just to better understand student’s skill level and prior knowledge. All audition material is found here:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/15g9sCXHDZMBgMy86X22N9PxkinjeUV7R?usp=sharing
Camp Performance Information
Date: Thursday June 26th
Time: 6:00pm
Call Time: 5:15pm
Dress: 2025 Summer Jazz Camp T-Shirt
Location: Settler’s Park Richard A. Rock Amphitheater (24401 W, 24401 Lockport St, Plainfield, IL 60544)
All students attending the camp sessions are required to attend and participate in the camp performance. The concert is free for all attendees, as all friends and families are encouraged to come and support these various ensembles.
Please fill out the registration form below and direct any questions regarding the camp to Mr. Kazda via email at rkazda@psd202.org. We are very thrilled about your interest in being part of our Summer Jazz Camp! We can’t wait to make music, grow as a community, and share meaningful experiences together this summer!