Education & Outreach

Learn about JAZZ.FM91 community and outreach programs that offer music education, mentorship and much more.

Music education fosters the development of critical thinking skills and the necessary confidence and tools for self-expression. The social benefits of the arts, both to children and adults, are well documented.

Our community initiatives focus on developing innovative ways to actively engage communities with music. They are supported by musicians, educators and volunteers who dedicate their time to teach and entertain students each year by providing expertise and guidance while creating a positive environment to help participants find their musical confidence and voice. Thanks to our generous donors and sponsors, each year thousands of enthusiastic participants and emerging artists gain experience in music and broadcasting.

JAZZ.FM91's Education & Outreach programs are generously supported by the Alistair and Mary Stewart Fund for Artistic Advancement in Jazz.

This professional-level, 20-member jazz ensemble is made up of youth ages 12 to 18. There are weekly rehearsals and performances throughout the year, with auditions for the band held each September. We also coordinate the JAZZ.FM91 Seminar Big Band, a similar ensemble but for younger students who are developing their skills.

Classrooms from kindergarten to high school are invited to our station to learn about jazz music and radio and to experience a performance/workshop led by expert educator-musicians.

A weekly radio show on JAZZ.FM91 featuring students from post-secondary jazz programs.

This program is designed to deliver jazz-oriented, weekly music therapy sessions to St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto. Sessions are led by award-winning musician, music therapist and educator Aaron Lightstone with help from Discovery Through the Arts members.

In partnership with the Pat and Tony Adams Freedom Fund for the Arts, this program is designed to promote, champion and inspire women’s contributions to jazz as instrumentalists, writers, vocalists and bandleaders.

JAZZ.FM91 offers a range of scholarships and bursaries that support youth development and achievement in our community.

JAZZ.FM91’s award-winning Holiday Heroes Instrument Drive provides used instruments to new owners through annual holiday donation drives. A different school from a priority neighbourhood is chosen each year to receive donations.