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Key of She Jazz Jam ft. La Orquesta Esa
You’re invited! All ages, all genders welcome!
Open Jazz Jam, small group workshops, and a performance by an NYC woman-led big band, La Orquesta Esa!
Girls in jazz are especially encouraged, but we welcome students of ALL genders as well as parents, educators, and jazz enthusiasts. Come hear some amazing women in jazz! FREE!
STUDENTS: Bring your instruments! Jazz Jam for all skill levels and all instruments led by the Hailey Brinnel Quartet with Kal Ferretti. Sectional break outs to meet band members & practice new skills! All Ages! Bring a friend
PARENTS, EDUCATORS, JAZZ ENTHUSIASTS: Come for the opening jam and stay for a special break out session “UnSwung Heroes: Women In Jazz” – led by Nicole Sweeney (Jazz radio host, WRTI)
A PERFORMANCE by Ginita y La Orquesta Esa will wrap the day.
Don’t miss it! Free parking onsite. Snacks and giveaways! Visit KeyofSheJazz.org for more information and links!
More About The Key of She Jazz Jam!
Founded by Olivia Hughart, Settlement alumnus, saxophonist and educator, Key of She Jazz is dedicated to “supporting and encouraging more girls and nonbinary students in jazz from middle school and up.” Hughart explains that the organization’s mission grew from personal experience: “When I was in middle school, I was one of the only girls in my jazz band, and I saw a need for an initiative like this. Ever since, we have been focused on uplifting the voices of those who are underrepresented in this artform.”
This year’s jam session will be led by Hailey Brinnel and her Quartet, joined by guest artist Kal Ferretti. Hughart is especially excited about crafting a session that feels welcoming to younger and emerging players. “When students register for the event, they get a link to a curated PDF packet with sheet music so they can prepare, which aims to make the younger students feel more included and ready to jump into an unfamiliar setting.”
The day will also feature a high-energy collaboration with La Orquesta Esa, a 10-piece Afro-Latin mambo ensemble from New York City. “They will lead workshops with the students by section and learn a portion of the band’s music so they can all play together,” Hughart says. “I’m really looking forward to hearing the energy they bring to the event!”
Adding to the day’s learning opportunities, WRTI’s Nicole Sweeney will host a breakout session highlighting influential women in jazz.
The 2025 jam welcomed more than 200 attendees throughout the day. “Last year, several folks had never been inside the Germantown Branch,” explains Hughart. “We hope it can lead to future students for Settlement as well!”
With workshops, performances, and opportunities to connect with a vibrant musical community, the March 8 Key of She Jazz Jam promises another empowering day for young musicians!
