Audition applications for 2026 Monterey Jazz Next Generation Women in Jazz Combo are now open!
The Next Generation Women in Jazz Combo audition process does NOT require any application fees! To be considered, applicants must complete the application form AND submit their audition videos by 11:59 PM (PDT) on Wednesday, October 22, 2025.
The Next Generation Women in Jazz Combo was created in 2019 to feature top high school women jazz players from throughout the United States. This small combo, directed by award-winning bassist, vocalist and composer Katie Thiroux, ensemble members are selected based on set criteria through video auditions. The group has performed at the Monterey Jazz Festival, the Next Generation Jazz Festival, the Jazz Education Network Conference, and at Berklee College of Music where they workshopped with Terri Lyne Carrington at the Berklee Institute of Jazz and Gender Justice.
- 2026 NGWIJC musicians will get together for two virtual rehearsals before September.
- 2026 NGWIJC musicians will be invited to the 69th Monterey Jazz Festival, September 25-27, 2026 for rehearsals, performances, master classes, and workshops.
- 2026 NGWIJC musician will be featured in a performance with Next Generation Jazz Orchestra on the main Arena stage.
- 2026 NGWIJC musicians will be invited to Berklee School of Music for performances and auditions in January 2026.
Please contact Claire Kim-Shin, Director of Education at [email protected] / 831.373.8842 with any questions.
Kaiser Permanente is a Premier Sponsor of the Next Generation Jazz Education Program
