Directed by Ron Waters, the Friends of Jazz Youth Band is open to all school-age musicians. Mr. Waters prepares arrangements to suit the particular talents of the participants each year, no matter the instrument. Beyond the typical jazz instruments, the Youth Band has had almost every instrument imaginable: cello, oboe, violin, and even accordion!

All applicants are accepted without audition - Mr. Waters finds a niche for every instrumentalist and vocalist.

Not only do students get wonderful experience playing in an improvising ensemble, but they get to meet kids from other schools who share a love for jazz. This ensemble offers a different experience than most high school jazz ensembles. Rather than simply reading charts, all members learn to improvise and get valuable experience playing jazz standards.