The highly-acclaimed JAS Academy Big Band Sessions, led by JAS Academy Artistic Director Christian McBride will now overlap the JAS June Experience, allowing attendees the opportunity to perform during the annual Aspen event and to have exposure to the many artists who will perform over the weekend.

The second sessions will be led by Guggenheim Fellowship Recipient, Etienne Charles, with a focus on “non-swing” styles of music – including Latin, music of South and Central America, Africa, and the Caribbean.

McBride and Charles will work in tandem with Frost Dean Shelly Berg, JAS President & CEO Jim Horowitz, and Program Director Chuck Bergeron, who will work on both sessions. Attendees will participate in both combo and big band settings during their residency.

The goal of the JAS Academy is to identify and assist the most talented artists embracing jazz fundamentally while exploring myriad related & unrelated forms of music at the highest level of quality. While at the Academy, in addition to their studies and rehearsals, students will also be showcased at multiple public performances.

The Academy is full-scholarship, with all travel, lodging, tuition and meals provided. The JAS Academy is supported annually by a multi-year gift from Sasha & Ed Bass.