Berklee College of Music Plans 20th Annual Italian Jazz Clinic

Berklee College of Music will celebrate its twentieth season of jazz education this summer at the Umbria Jazz Festival in Perugia, Italy. From July 5-17 the Berklee Summer School at Umbria Jazz Clinics will bring a sample of their college-based curriculum to young musicians by offering performance and theory classes; faculty vocal and instrumental instruction; and the opportunity for students to audition for college placement and scholarships.

In previous years, the festival has drawn nearly 5,000 students and over $1 million in scholarship money has been awarded. 240 students are planning to attend this year’s festival from Europe, Africa, Australia, and the United States.

This year, Berklee Summer School at Umbria Jazz Clinics will celebrate their twentieth year with events such as the conferment of honorary degrees upon pianists Hank Jones and McCoy Tyner (pictured) and trumpeter Enrico Rava for their contributions to jazz and culture. The school will also host a musical parade honoring the fiftieth anniversary of Charlie Parker’s death.

If you happen to be in Italy, check out the free concert finales from July 15-17. The Donna McElroy/Larry Monroe Band, comprised of Berklee faculty, will perform eight free evening concerts on July 9 and from July 11-17.

The faculty and special clinicians will be Mark White (guitar) Scott deOgburn (trumpet), Jeff Galindo (trombone), Matthew Nicholl (piano), Oscar Stagnaro (bass), Ron Savage (drums), Donna McElroy (voice), Dennis Montgomery III (voice, piano, gospel choir), Jim Kelly (guitar), Greg Badolato (tenor sax) and Larry Monroe (conducting special lectures).

Originally Published June 13, 2005