Student Advisory Council
A national leadership program that brings together talented student jazz musicians from across the country to share ideas, learn from professionals, and help shape the future of jazz education.
“Over the past three years on the Advisory Council, I’ve grown as a musician, student, and leader. Through mentorship, scholarships, and guidance from Jazz Empowers, I attended the Global Jazz Workshop in Austin and gained opportunities that helped shape my path toward studying Music Production and Engineering in college.”
- Diego Andres Vazquez Landeros - Student Council Class of 2025
Program Overview
The Student Advisory Council is a highly selective leadership committee made up of dedicated and passionate jazz students from across the country. Meeting monthly throughout the year, council members collaborate with peers who share a deep commitment to music, education, and leadership. Students build lasting community, develop as musicians and leaders, and receive mentorship from professional artists and educators. The council also serves as a platform for students to share ideas and provide meaningful feedback on how jazz is taught and experienced in schools today.
Who Can Apply?
High school student that participates in jazz bands at Jazz Empowers partner schools.
Why Should You Apply?
All council members will receive a $500 scholarship at the end of the school year.
The council will allow you to connect with other students across the country that are just as passionate about jazz as you are.
It will provide a great leadership opportunity to represent your school and community.
You will receive advice on college application/auditions.
Expectations
Attend monthly one-hour long council meetings on Zoom. (December 2026 through April 2027)
Respond to Jazz Empowers communications within 48 hours.
Provide monthly updates on progress in jazz band/school to Jazz Empowers.
Continue to be an active leader in their school’s jazz band.
Actively participate in council discussions during meetings.
Application Instructions
• You will answer questions as well as submit a video of your playing (submitting materials using a phone or computer camera is acceptable, no professional recording required).
The video may be anything that best showcases your playing.
If you are looking for ideas, you can take an improvised solo on 2-4 choruses on the Bb blues play-along track.
Deadline: November 16, 2026
Applications for the 2026-2027 school year will open in Fall 2026.
If you are having any issues, reach out to Danny Fernandez at dfernandez@jazzempowers.org.
Optional Play Along Track
Hear from Our Student Council
Hear directly from past Student Advisory Council members as they share how the program shaped their growth as musicians, leaders, and future changemakers.