Black Mountain Jazz launched its youth big band project at the start of 2023. Its future looks healthy for at least another three years with an Abergavenny Town Council Grant that provides much welcomed funding support.

Bringing together a handful of talented and experienced tutors, BMJazz Katz is a workshop project which gives people aged 10 to 19 years (ish) the opportunity to learn to play together in a jazz ensemble.

Open to those who play any instrument, including voice, to a ‘reasonable level’ for their age. The sessions incorporate a mixture of individual and group playing, focusing on rhythm, feel, balance and fun.

All professional musicians, the workshop tutors bring their knowledge and enthusiasm and help students feel comfortable, capable and part of the conversation.

Integral to the programme are three performances, the first of which is being arranged for March.

New members are always welcome and there is an open invitation to come along to one of the workshops and give it a try. The next workshop is on Sunday 7th January (2.30pm to 4.30pm) at Abergavenny’s Melville Centre.

For more information please use the contact form on BMJ’s website – www.blackmountainjazz.co.uk.