NYO Jazz

NYO Jazz, comprising outstanding young musicians ages 16–19 from across the US, showcases the legacy and bright future of American jazz. Led by Artistic Director Sean Jones, these remarkable musicians come together each summer to engage in a rigorous training residency with world-class jazz masters on the campus of Purchase College, State University of New York. In addition to the residency, NYO Jazz performs an annual concert at Carnegie Hall with a celebrated guest artist and embarks on a tour to some of the world’s great music capitals. The musicians serve as dynamic music ambassadors as they share this uniquely American genre with audiences around the globe.

Ages: 16–19
Available for Young Musicians: Nationally
Season: Summer Program

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A row of music stands with "NYO Jazz" in white and blue

Application Information

Each year, NYO Jazz invites young musicians ages 16–19 to audition for its summer season. Applications for summer 2026 are now open.

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NYO Jazz Performs “Under the Moon and Over the Sky” featuring Alicia Olatuja

NYO Jazz performs Angela Bofill’s “Under the Moon and Over the Sky” (arr. Michael Olatuja; adapt. Jim Pugh) with artistic director and bandleader Sean Jones and featuring special guest vocalist Alicia Olatuja.

NYO Jazz Details

Meet the Band

Meet the extraordinary young jazz players of NYO Jazz.

Guest Artists & Faculty

The musicians of NYO Jazz are coached by a stellar faculty of America’s esteemed jazz players and perform with world-class guest artists.

Past Seasons

Discover highlights and favorite moments from past NYO Jazz seasons.

Sean Jones leads the NYO Jazz Band in a rehearsal

Albums from NYO Jazz

NYO Jazz, a premier ensemble of talented US musicians ages 16–19, celebrates jazz with full-length albums that showcase their artistry for a global audience.

Follow NYO Jazz

Follow NYO Jazz on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

More National Youth Ensemble Information

National Youth Orchestra of the USA

NYO-USA brings together extraordinary instrumentalists ages 16–19 for intensive training with outstanding faculty and guest artists.

NYO2

NYO2 is an intensive summer training program for outstanding young musicians ages 14–16.

NYO Alumni

Discover accomplishments of alums, who have gone on to join some of the country’s top orchestras and ensembles.