John Brown Jazz OrchestraPerformance Guide

John Brown and his musicians are committed to jazz education – for all people, at all levels. John is a Professor and Director of the Jazz Program at Duke University and makes education a part of his daily life. Evincing his commitment to education, John constantly seeks opportunities to work with students and to study himself. Just this past summer, John attended the Lincoln Center Institute in New York City and is now a certified instructor using that model of teaching. John has been selected by the North Carolina Arts Council to assemble performing groups connecting arts and education, so children are exposed and have the opportunity to make music and the performing arts a part of their lives. A part of this mission is met by John’s work as Director of the Triangle Youth Jazz Ensemble.

John giving a bass master class with his students. In this photo: Bruce Ridge, Michael & Linda Shank & Bobby Kelley share with students

Each of John’s musicians has experience working with students of all levels in small and large group settings. They all teach privately, give a wide variety of workshops and will work in different configurations to suit the particular needs of the students with whom they are asked to work. John and his musicians are available for workshops on specific music concepts, master classes on instruments, clinics with small and large ensembles and joint performances with students and colleagues. Additionally, John and his performing and teaching colleagues are available for teacher education workshops. John also lectures on jazz concepts, history, and does workshops on jazz improvisation, listening skills and orchestral performance.

Ray Codrington working with students

Saxophonist Tim Gordon greets students after our Jazz Orchestra performed at their school

During halftime at a Duke basketball game, John stands with fellow Duke Faculty members recognized for faculty excellence.

John and Duke colleague John Hanks demonstrating jazz performance techniques for students.

John introducing elementary school children to the bass.

John with one of his students from UNC-Chapel Hill, where he taught for 10 years.

Education Videos

John Brown Jazz Orchestra - cARTwheels school performance

Jazz Combo Workshop at Chapel Hill High School with John Brown

John Brown Jazz Combo School Performance

Private Lesson

John Brown Quintet - Teacher Workshop

Triangle Youth Jazz Ensemble directed by John Brown

John Brown Jazz Combo School/Community Residency - part 1

John Brown Jazz Combo School/Community Residency - part 2

Jazz @ the Mary Lou Williams Center at Duke University, led by John Brown

Learn About the Instruments

Learn about the Guitar

Learn about the Trumpet

Learn about the Trombone

Learn about the Saxophone

Learn about the Piano

Learn about the Drums

Learn about the Bass