Summer Jazz Workshop for Adults (19+) at New England Conservatory, June 21-27, 2026
A Jazz Retreat for Creative Musicians of All Ages
Whether you’re a college student, working professional, or a lifelong learner, Jazz Lab welcomes adult musicians of all levels to Boston for a week-long, immersive experience at the renowned New England Conservatory (NEC).
Jazz Lab is a renown creative music program unlike anything you’ve ever done. Registration opens Fall of 2025.
June 21-27, 2026
What You'll Experience
Small jazz ensembles
Daily improvisation workshops
Faculty-led masterclasses
Jam sessions
Guest Artist Concerts
Final showcase performance
📍 All sessions are held on NEC’s campus, with access to state-of-the-art rehearsal rooms, an impressive number of easily accessible practice spaces, and world-class performance venues.
“My wife and I have been to quite a few jazz camps and this was the best experience we have had at one.”
-John, alto sax, DC
Who It's For
What is the age range and experience level for participants?
Adult musicians (ages 19+)
College students & recent grads
Educators looking for inspiration
Returning players & passionate hobbyists
Retirees rediscovering music
No Audition, Just Passion
Do I need to be a professional musician? Unlike traditional jazz intensives, Jazz Lab focuses on intuition, creativity, and collaboration, so whether you’re an expert or a beginner, Jazz Lab can serve you. We welcome players from diverse musical backgrounds—no pre-audition required.
Learn from World-Class Faculty
Our instructors are acclaimed jazz artists and educators from top institutions.
📍 Location & Housing
Jazz Lab takes place at New England Conservatory in the heart of Boston, giving participants access to state-of-the-art rehearsal spaces and world-class performance facilities.
Participants can choose convenient on-campus housing for an additional fee, or explore a variety of nearby accommodations just minutes from campus.
Meals:
Participants who do not select on-campus housing or a dining plan are responsible for their own meals. Fortunately, the NEC neighborhood offers a wide range of student-friendly cafés, restaurants, and grab-and-go options within easy walking distance.
📍 View NEC on Google Maps🔗 Explore More About Jazz Lab
💵 Cost Breakdown (2025 Pricing)
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Program Tuition | $1,950 | Includes all rehearsals, workshops, faculty sessions, and the final performance |
| On-Campus Housing | $1,250 | Shared dorm room and linens (Sunday–Saturday). Optional. |
| Dining Plan | $250 | Lunch and dinner from Saturday evening through Friday. Optional. |
“Adult Jazz Lab gave me a musical education beyond what I’ve been able to get from community music teachers. The teachers introduced us to new ways of perceiving, learning and performing music.”
-Mark, bass/trumpet, MA
📅 Program Dates & Schedule
Jazz Lab: Players & Educators Workshop
2026 Dates: June 21–27, 2026
Location: New England Conservatory, Boston, MA
Sample Daily Schedule
(Subject to some variance during the week)
9:00 AM – Instrumental Class (with your instrument group)
10:15 AM – 11:30 AM – Small Ensemble
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM – Practice Time
12:30 PM – 1:30 PM – Lunch
1:45 PM – 2:45 PM – Elective Class
3:00 PM – 4:15 PM – Masterclass
4:15 PM – 6:00 PM – Free Time / Optional Private Lessons
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM – Dinner
8:00 PM – Evening Concert / Group Hang
Final Showcase:
Saturday, June 27, 2026 – Open to family, friends, and the Boston community🏠 Room & Board Options
Jazz Lab offers convenient on-campus housing and a dining plan for participants seeking a fully immersive experience at New England Conservatory.
🧾 Program Tuition (2025 Pricing)*
$1,950
Includes all rehearsals, workshops, faculty sessions, and the final performance
🛏️ On-Campus Housing
Cost: $1,250
Includes:
Shared room in NEC residence halls
Linens (sheets, blanket, pillow, towel)
Access to NEC practice rooms and campus lounges
24/7 campus security
Convenient access to classes and evening concerts
🍽️ Dining Plan (Included with On-Campus Housing)
Cost: $250
Covers:
Lunch and dinner from Saturday evening through Friday
Served in NEC’s campus dining facilities
🛎️ Off-Campus Housing Options
Participants may also choose to arrange their own lodging. NEC is located in Boston’s Back Bay/Fenway neighborhood, with hotels and short-term rentals available within walking distance. Costs vary by provider.
Note: If you're not staying in on-campus housing or enrolled in a dining plan, you’ll be responsible for your own meals. Fortunately, there are plenty of student-friendly cafés and restaurants nearby.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
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Adults ages 19 and up — including college students, working musicians, educators, and passionate amateurs. No maximum age limit!
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Visit our teaching artists page to read faculty bios, and see who’s at Jazz Lab through the years. The Jazz Lab: P&EW 2026 faculty will be announced throughout the year. Core faculty include:
Henrique Eisenmann, Artistic Director, piano/strings
Tim Lienhard, Executive Director, trombone/brass
Ken Schaphorst, Founding Faculty, trumpet/composition
David Zoffer, Founding Faculty, piano
Farayi Malek, voice
Lihi Haruvi, sax/woodwinds
Zwelakhe Duma Bell le Pere, bass
Peter Moffett, drums -
No audition is required. Just bring your instrument, your curiosity, and your willingness to collaborate.
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Yes! We welcome musicians from diverse musical backgrounds and skill levels. Prior jazz experience is helpful but not required.
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Jazz Lab is held at the New England Conservatory, 255 St. Botolph Street, Boston, MA.
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No. Housing is optional. You may stay in NEC housing (for an additional fee) or arrange your own accommodations nearby.
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The city of Boston is served by Boston Logan International Airport (BOS). Logan airport is a major hub, and there are plenty of flights in and out of the city each day. Once students arrive at BOS, travel to New England Conservatory is easy. NEC is accessible via public transit - plan your trip from the airport using this website (click here), or using Rideshare App or Taxi.
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Yes! We offer need-based scholarships. During the registration process you can elect to submit an application for Financial Aid . For any questions, contact summer@necmusic.edu.
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We're happy to help! Whether you're wondering what to bring, which instruments are provided, what styles you'll play, or even what the weather is like in Boston — we’ve heard it all.
For program-related questions
(e.g. gear, daily schedule, musical styles, faculty):
📩 Email Jazz Lab directly at info@jazzlabmusic.orgFor registration and logistics
(e.g. enrollment, tuition, housing, scholarships):
📩 Contact the New England Conservatory at ee@necmusic.edu and copy info@jazzlabmusic.org
Jazz Lab has been running summer programs since 2013 — so whatever your question, we’ve probably got an answer ready.
Questions? Contact us at info@jazzlabmusic.org or 509-990-3341 with questions.