Cape Ann Jazz Workshop
The Cape Ann Jazz Workshop (CAJW) is Rockport Music’s immersive two-week summer program where middle- and high-school musicians learn jazz through playing, listening, and creating in community. Rooted in both the sound and spirit of jazz, CAJW helps young artists grow as musicians and as people under the artistic leadership of Director Alexa Tarantino.
Our mission is to empower young musicians to realize their musical potential and ignite their passion for jazz.
The CAJW Experience
CAJW is a vibrant musical community where students grow through hands-on ensemble work, creative exploration, and inspiring mentorship. Each morning blends warm-ups, small-group combo rehearsals, and instrument masterclasses that strengthen listening, rhythmic awareness, and expressive playing. In the afternoons, students choose from electives—Jazz Theory & Composition, Improvisation, Jazz History, and Style Studies—and come together for experiences such as our New Orleans–style second line parade and improvisation circle. Together, these elements help students build confidence, collaboration skills, and musical independence.
CAJW 2026: Dates & Registration — Now Open
Students in grades 6–12 (or entering college) with at least one year of playing experience on their instrument are eligible to participate.
Advanced high school musicians may choose to audition for the Cape Ann Jazz Messengers (see below).
Students may join one or both sessions.
High school students attending only one week are encouraged to enroll in Session 1.
Middle school students attending only one week are encouraged to enroll in Session 2.
Session 1 — July 27–31, 2026
A week for students ready to deepen improvisation, ensemble skills, and musical independence.
Culminating performance: Friday, July 31 at the Shalin Liu Performance Center.
Guest Artist to be announced in 2026.
Session 2 — August 3–7, 2026
A week designed for developing musicians building fundamental jazz skills in a supportive environment.
Culminating performance: Friday, August 7 in the Rose Theater at Endicott College.
The program runs Monday–Friday, 9AM–3PM at Endicott College’s Manninen Center for the Arts in Beverly, MA.
Registered students will be asked to submit a video demonstrating their playing ability so they can be organized into ensembles that compliment their current level while also fostering growth.
Feel free to contact Education Coordinator, Greg Jukes with any questions: gjukes@rockportmusic.org or 978-546-7391 x.144
Cape Ann Jazz Messengers
The Cape Ann Jazz Messengers is a select group of high school students who demonstrate advanced musical readiness and a passion for leadership. This ensemble participates in both weeks of the workshop, rehearsing as a pre-professional ensemble and performing multiple times throughout the community. Their daily schedule focuses on advanced jazz performance, improvisation, and mentoring younger students—preparing them for the next stages of musical growth.
Students audition for the Messengers by video and enrollment is capped at one ensemble of 3–5 lead instruments plus rhythm section (piano and/or guitar, bass, and drums).
Applications are due January 15, 2026.
“The jazz camp was an excellent experience and helped me grow as a musician and as a person. There are so many opportunities to learn new things. ★★★★★”
— CAJW Student
Artistic Leadership
Led by Alexa Tarantino—internationally recognized saxophonist, composer, and educator—the Cape Ann Jazz Workshop has offered a dynamic environment where students explore the sound and spirit of jazz since 2014. Alexa’s leadership blends musical rigor with creativity and joyful exploration, helping students grow as confident, expressive musicians. Each summer, she is joined by a team of exceptional jazz performers and educators who bring diverse professional experience to every ensemble, elective, and masterclass.
Guest Artists
Each year, CAJW welcomes an internationally recognized Guest Artist who inspires students through clinics, rehearsals, and shared performances. These artists offer firsthand insight into jazz’s creative possibilities and model the artistry, discipline, and imagination that drive the music forward.
Recent Guest Artists include Christian Sands, GRAMMY-nominated pianist, along with past luminaries such as Michael Rodriguez, Jimmy Greene, Ulysses Owens Jr., Lauren Sevian, Jerome Jennings, and Tanya Darby. Their presence enriches the workshop and creates powerful, memorable learning experiences for students.
A Glimpse into Rockport Music’s Cape Ann Jazz Workshop
Take a look at the energy, creativity, and community that define the Cape Ann Jazz Workshop—featuring rehearsals, electives, masterclasses, and performances across Cape Ann and at the Shalin Liu Performance Center.