Jazz Combo & Jazz Vocals
2026 Jazz Vocal Auditions Open Now
To book SJE for an event or for more information, please email info@spotlightrepnw.org
Spotlight Jazz Ensemble (SJE) Vocal Program
A performance-focused jazz vocal experience led by professional jazz artists Frances Garcia Hoffman and Denine Monet.
Singers ages 16+ will train weekly in classic jazz repertoire – including swing, bossa nova, Latin styles, and ballads – while developing microphone technique, improvisation skills, and confident stage presence. Performance opportunities are built into the season, including live showcases at local jazz venues.
No prior jazz experience required; previous vocal training is strongly recommended. Join a community of dedicated vocalists advancing both craft and performance artistry.
Season
March – May 2026
Classes
Mondays, March 2 – May 11
(No class April 13)
6:30–8:30 p.m.
Location
Sammamish
Performances
May 2, May 9, and TBD. Additional Sammamish Farmers Market performances Summer 2026.
Spotlight Jazz Ensemble (SJE) Combo
The SJE Combo offers a performance mastery program dedicated to honing participants' skills through weekly rehearsals and performances at top venues like Boxley's and Eagan's Ballard Jam House.
Open to musicians aged 16+ who play drums/percussion, bass, guitar, piano/keyboard, saxophone, trumpet, or trombone.
Join other passionate musicians to master group melody, harmony, and rhythm with stylistic authenticity, guided by experienced professional jazz artists.
Spotlight has a long history of including live jazz music in its various performing arts showcases and is proud to build upon that tradition with the Seattle Spotlight Jazz Orchestra.
The Seattle Spotlight Jazz Orchestra (SSJO)
SSJO started with a dream of two high school students to form a group of like-minded, dedicated jazz musicians who love the big band sound and who seek out challenging scores to play. Spotlight founder, Frances Garcia Hoffman, gave them a home as part of her plan to create multiple instrumental opportunities in support of the community's talents.
SSJO reaches across the entire Seattle region with members from West Seattle, Seattle, Mercer Island, Bellevue, Kirkland, Redmond, Mt. Si, Carnation, and Sammamish.
Key SSJO goals:
- To raise awareness and support of jazz within the broader community through training and education.
- To foster connections and a sense of community while encouraging each participant to reach their personal best.
- To develop professional performance skills and work ethic by focusing on diligence, teamwork, recording, and performing in public venues.
- To encourage collaborative leadership skills through student-driven problem solving and direction.
- To further the understanding and appreciation of the various styles of jazz.
- To provide opportunities to experiment, have fun, and just jam!
