Education & Collaboration
In keeping with our nonprofit’s dedication to Music and Education, the Society reaches out to all ages and levels of musicians who desire to work in a Traditional Jazz style.
Learn from Our Bands
The Poudre River Irregulars are a NoCO Jazz group that has played consistently for thirty years at Avogadro’s on the First Friday of each month. This experienced group models improvisation strategies and the communication, collaboration and jazz democracy of leading, following, call and response playing. They play a variety of music themes & of traditional jazz styles from early New Orleans through the early 50s. The University of Colorado at Denver Claim Jumpers jazz band performs twice a year at Avo’s First Friday with the PRI. Additional Collegiate bands are invited to contact Len Kellogg for more information about playing at Avo’s with the PRI band. (See below.)
A newer group, The Harmony Hotshots, provides opportunities for adult and young adult musicians who desire experiences learning the roots of jazz improvisation. This nurturing band welcomes good musicians of any age to refine their performance onstage. Skilled trad jazz players on any instrument are welcome to join as they provide modeling and encouragement. Group practice time is worked into the schedule before a gig. Local High School and College jazz bands are invited to contact Ted Turner to learn about playing with the Harmony Hotshots on the Fourth Sunday Vintage Jazz Afternoons. (See below.)
Experience Playing Live
With an eye toward the future, we recognize and promote middle school through collegiate students who are engaged in learning and performing with jazz improvisations. As part of our focus on Education and Collaboration, High School and Collegiate band leaders may request a warm-up or intermission performance for their student band on any month of the calendar at one of these calendar days:
1- on a First Friday at Avo’s, 4:30 – 7 pm with the Poudre River Irregulars. Interested? Contact Len Kellogg, leader of the Poudre River Irregulars at lenkellogg1964@gmail.com.
OR
2- a Fourth Sunday at Avo’s, 2:00 – 4:30 pm with the Harmony Hotshots. Contact Ted Turner, the leader of the Harmony Hotshots at Tedtturner@outlook.com
We look forward to working with you and your musicians!