Jazz Camp at Aquinas College

Sunday, June 7 – Friday, June 12, 2026

The very popular AQ Summer Jazz Camp has been a true treasure for West Michigan students for over 40 years! The faculty of the Aquinas College Music Department, in collaboration with expert Jazz musicians from Michigan and beyond, are very excited to host the annual Summer Jazz Camp again in 2026. This creative, expressive, and educational experience has been enjoyed by so many young musicians!

 

When and Where

Sunday, June 7 – Friday, June 12, 2026

• Hours: Sunday, 1-4 p.m., Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Aquinas College Art & Music Center, Grand Rapids, MI

 

For grades 6 through 12

 

Scholarships

This year, the AQ Summer Jazz Camp offers 10 half-tuition scholarships for students who are completing grades 6-12 and have high financial needs. Interested campers can apply here. Scholarship applications are due May 1, 2026.

 

Highlights

Combos, big bands, faculty concerts, concerts featuring students with Faculty, Master classes, and electives.

 

Choices

Jazz Theory, Improvisation, Jazz Styles and Analysis, Instrument Masterclasses, and Hand Drumming.

 

Instructors

All camp instructors are recognized jazz masters whose careers as teachers and players are well established and widely respected.

 

Cost

• The camp fee includes all materials, classes, lunches and a camp T-Shirt!
• After May 15, registrations will only be accepted on a case-by-case basis.
  
  

Registration

Registration coming soon.

 

Contact

Dr. Tom Polett, Camp Director
616-632-2416 or tcp001@aquinas.edu

 

Connect & Follow

Website: AQ Summer Camps

Facebook: AQ Outreach and Engagement

Aquinas College has been accredited by the National Association of  Schools of Music (NASM).

 

Summer Jazz Camp Mission Statement

Since 1985, the Aquinas College Summer Jazz Camp (SJC) has taught the American art form of jazz to hundreds of youth and adults throughout Michigan and the Midwest. The SJC strives to be an inclusive one week summer camp that challenges the advanced musician while simultaneously providing opportunities for growth to the developing musician through a many faceted curriculum with highly qualified instructors of the Music Department.

Aquinas College Course Credit OR Michigan State Continuing Education Clock Hour (SCECH) Credit is available for an additional cost. Email us at jazzcamp@aquinas.edu for more information.