Next Generation Jazz Orchestra with the Next Generation Women in Jazz Combo

Kaiser Permanente is a Premier Sponsor of the Next Generation Jazz Education Program

Monterey Jazz Festival brings together 20 of the most accomplished high school jazz musicians from across the country to form the Next Generation Jazz Orchestra (NGJO) directed by GRAMMY-nominated pianist and composer Gerald Clayton. Established in 1971, the NGJO traditionally gathers for one weekend in the summer to begin rehearsals in preparation for a domestic or international tour.

Having received worldwide acclaim, tour performances for the Orchestra have included festivals and venues in the United States, Canada, Japan, Australia, and Europe. Tenure in the NGJO culminates in a main stage performance in September at the Monterey Jazz Festival with the annual Artist-in-Residence. Former members of the NGJO are a formidable list of contemporary stars in the jazz world and include Benny Green, Patrice Rushen, Joshua Redman, Ambrose Akinmusire, and many others.

2026 Next Generation Jazz Orchestra
Gerald Clayton, Director

Members of the 2026 Next Generation Jazz Orchestra will be announced in the spring.

2026 Next Generation Women in Jazz Combo
Katie Thiroux, Director

Miri Izenberg, trumpet / California
Iris Chen, tenor saxophone / California
Annie Meyer, guitar / Connecticut
Sophie Ionitsa, piano / Washington
Roya Feiz, bass / California
Veronica Marques, drums / Florida