The Columbus Youth Jazz (CYJ) Girls Project is a month-long jazz ensemble that celebrates girls who play jazz. During each session, we will develop our skills as an ensemble while exploring jazz repertoire, style, improvisation and more, creating a fun and encouraging space for students to build confidence on their instrument.
The CYJ Girls Project focuses on playing music while connecting with one another and learning about the women who have shaped the music throughout history. We believe it is important to foster a community that uplifts all voices and provides an opportunity for students to learn, take risks, and develop their skills.
This program wraps up with a final performance at Natalie’s – Grandview Music Hall and Kitchen on April 11th as the opening performance for special guest, Dawn Clement – our 2025 Jazz Girls Columbus Guest Teaching Artist.
Rehearsal Dates: Thursdays, March 6th – April 3rd
Time: 6:00 – 8:00 PM
Location: The Jazz Academy, 4th Floor of the Lincoln Theatre (769 E Long St.)
Final Performance: Friday, April 11, 7pm – Natalie’s – Grandview – 945 King Ave, Columbus, OH 43212
The CYJ Girls Project is open to female and gender-expansive instrumentalists and vocalists in grades 7-12 with a minimum of two years experience on their instrument.
Please note: Upon registration you will be asked to upload a brief video audition. This is not mandatory to participate in this program, but highly encouraged as it provides us with more information about you before we start rehearsals!
Attendance policy: Students may miss one rehearsal during the month, but must be able to attend the final performance on April 11 and are strongly encouraged to participate in our annual Jazz Girls Columbus event on Saturday, April 12, 9:30-4pm to participate in the CYJ Girls Project.
Girls Project Faculty:
- Mercedes Chomos, saxophone
- Merideth Eshelman, bass
- Elaine Mylius, trombone
- Plus special guests!
Please reach out to Troy Meister, Education Program Assistant, at tmeister@jazzartgroup.org, or Mary Longsdorf, Youth Jazz Assistant, at mlongsdorf@jazzartsgroup.org with questions or concerns.