PYP musicians attend University of Oregon’s Jazz Improvisation Summer Camp!

Posted on July 27, 2023

In July, the University of Oregon welcomed junior-high through high-school aged musicians to their Summer Jazz Improvisation Camp! PYP double bass players Steven Walker and Daphne Titterington were among the selected instrumentalists. According to the University of Oregon’s website, the camp is designed for musicians with advanced improvisation experience as well as for performers wanting to learn how to improvise for the first time.

“What I love most about jazz camp is how it inspires me to be a better jazz musician,” said Daphne. “Getting to know, learning from, and playing with a ton of musicians—campers, counselors, and faculty alike—makes me leave the week wanting to improve my skills and search for a such a community everywhere I go. The cooperative and creative nature of jazz and improvisation complements the social environment of camps like this perfectly and causes the music we play to be even better!”

Musicians from around the region and beyond spent a week with the University of Oregon’s Jazz Studies faculty and some of the region’s finest jazz artists and educators, learning how to develop their skills in the art of improvisation and meeting other musicians who have a passion for jazz, too.

“I joined jazz camp to be there with my friend Daphne and meet a whole bunch of people,” exclaimed Steven! “It was an amazing experience and has made me more excited to be a part of the jazz band at West Linn High School and appreciate the hard work and creativity of those involved with jazz. I also look forward to seeing my friends going forward at jazz competitions and events.”

Photos provided by Sue Walker and Daphne Titterington