SoCal Jazz Academy

"I joined So Cal Jazz about a year ago and highly recommend it. I had a music background, but no study or experience with jazz. The school provides a full framework for learning: great instructors, lots of combos to play in, a direct connection to the So Cal jazz scene and lots of local performances. If you have at least a low-intermediate competence on your instrument you can succeed here. It’s a warm, inviting place to learn"

"A place every week where I could enjoy playing and learning jazz with wonderful students and instructors. I learned so much from true masters like Ron Kobayashi, Mark Massey, and Wendell Kelly. Dr Yengsep is incredibly generous in getting his students out playing publicly and you’ll see him constantly inviting them onstage wherever he plays."

"Look nowhere else for authentic and top class jazz instruction - in Orange County of all places! First, I've been with the Academy for over a year and I'll say that Dr. Karim Yengsep really knows what he's doing. He pulls from his experiences around the world, giving his students individualized and group instruction, and a ridiculous amount of opportunities to practice what they learn, 'en vivo' and live club/restaurant settings. The Academy can accommodate anyone from absolute beginners (that was me!) through seasoned players. Additionally, Dr. Yengsep has organized a collective of pro-level musicians that he plays with regularly providing students and enthusiasts plenty of local opportunities to see these aural scientists creating in real time. As an added bonus, these same musicians will occasionally drop into course sessions, providing valuable feedback and insight. The students and faculty are so patient and supportive, like a family. Before I found SoCal Jazz I really thought I'd have to move to LA or SF to get quality instruction and meet fellow jazz heads just starting out - but I was wrong, jazz is alive and thriving right here in OC! SoCal Jazz and Dr. Yengsep contribute greatly to growing this amazing community and I highly recommend you stop by to check it out."

"If you are serious about your musical journey and education So Cal Jazz is where you want to be. The director Dr. Yengsep and his staff are elite musicians and extremely passionate educators. Their knowledge and commitment to their students are priceless! Their patience, support and encouragement is so addictive. Moreover, it is extremely obvious that they educate for the joy and LOVE for music! The So Cal Jazz Academy is First Class!!"

"If you are an adult who always wanted to play jazz on the piano, drums, sax or other instrument, the SoCal Jazz Academy provides a fantastic opportunity to learn how play in a combo with others of your same ability level. Karim has established an atmosphere that is congenial and patient with no pressure. Each session is fun, as well as instructive- a very rewarding experience."