The Jazz Institute has been called the “non-pareil destination for attentive and engaged instruction in the improviser’s art” by DOWNBEAT Magazine. For two weeks this summer, 65 or so aspiring young musicians have the opportunity to learn from a faculty of top jazz practitioners who are also gifted educators. Young musicians are brought to their next level of musicianship through an intense curriculum designed to communicate the traditions of jazz and continue to inspire even after the program ends. Students work closely with faculty in daily combo rehearsals, improvisational and special classes. Private and semi-private lessons distinguish this institute from other similar summer camps. Scholarship assistance is available. The program kicks off with an inspirational jolt as students arrive just in time to catch the Freihofer’s Saratoga Jazz Festival at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center, another aspect of this program that sets it apart. The evening concert series presents the Skidmore Faculty All-Stars and invited guest artists in performance, and afternoon master classes offer additional opportunities to learn from these master musicians. Students perform in downtown Saratoga Springs at the historic Caffe Lena and twice on campus including at the close of the program.