A love of jazz brought together 50 young musicians from across the South Side and surrounding suburbs for a week of music, collaboration and creativity at Saint Xavier University’s SXU-Southside Summer Jazz Camp.
Students ages 12 to 18 from 20 different schools spent the week learning from experienced jazz educators, strengthening their musical skills and discovering the excitement of performing as part of an ensemble.
A large number of participants came from the Beverly, Evergreen Park and Oak Lawn school communities, while others traveled from schools including Lincoln-Way, Homewood-Flossmoor, DePaul College Prep and Crete-Monee.
The camp was led by Shawn Salmon, Ph.D., director of jazz studies for the Music Department at Saint Xavier University. Held at the university’s campus at 3700 W. 103rd St., Chicago, the camp gave students the opportunity to learn from talented jazz faculty members while developing a deeper appreciation for the art form.
“Students are able to grow as both musicians, learning from our incredibly talented jazz camp faculty, as well as developing a deeper understanding of jazz music,” Salmon said. “For some, the camp is an introduction to jazz, for others it is a way to sharpen their jazz skills during the summer.”
While improving their musical abilities was a major focus, Salmon said the relationships students build throughout the week are one of the most meaningful parts of the experience.
“The greatest benefit is the friendships that are made throughout the week,” Salmon said. “I think the downtime off the stage is just as important during the week as on the stage.”
The week concluded Friday, June 26, with a final concert at the Saint Xavier Music Performance Hall, where two student bands performed for a packed audience. This year’s concert celebrated the centennial birthdays of jazz legends John Coltrane and Miles Davis.
Co-director Andy Garcia opened the program with his band performing four selections, including Davis’ “Freddie Freeloader,” “Afro Blue,” “Blues in the Night” and the Herbie Hancock hit “Chameleon.”
Salmon’s band followed with performances of Davis’ “All Blues,” Coltrane’s “Blue Trane,” “Manteca” and a tribute to Sonny Rollins with his composition “St. Thomas.”
Watching the students come together throughout the week was one of the most rewarding parts of the camp, Salmon said.
“Mr. Garcia and I are filled with pride and joy to showcase how hard these young cats have worked all week,” Salmon said. “In a matter of five days, students that have never played together before work together to put on an amazing show.”
The camp has become a favorite part of Salmon’s work at Saint Xavier University, giving him the opportunity to share his passion for jazz with the next generation of musicians.
“This camp has become one of my most favorite things about teaching at SXU,” Salmon said. “The campers are so much fun to work with. They are hardworking, bright, kind and really funny.”
Many students return each summer, creating a sense of community among young musicians who continue to grow together.
“We have many that return every summer, so I get excited to see them, reconnect with them and share this beautiful art form with them,” Salmon said.
Through the SXU-Southside Summer Jazz Camp, students not only learned about jazz but also experienced the teamwork, friendships and creativity that make the music timeless.