The New Orleans Jazz Institute—a partnership between the University of New Orleans and the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra, directed by Irvin Mayfield—has announced another year of its summer music camp, known as Project Prodigy. The venture aims to provide music instruction for New Orleans students in fourth through eighth grades, to enrich their musical skills and to develop an appreciation for the arts.

The four-week camp is held from June 10 – July 5, Monday – Friday from 8:30 a.m. – 1 p.m, at the Medard H. Nelson Charter School at 3121 St. Bernard Avenue. Classes will be taught by local musicians along with certified public school music teachers. On June 21 there will be a master class at the Joy Theater on Canal Street, with Mayfield and “Blue Dog” artist George Rodrigue. There will also be a final recital on July 5, where students will get their first taste of stage performance for family, teachers and friends.

Beginners are welcome, but students will need to bring their own instruments. Classes are divided into beginning, intermediate and advanced groups. Registration is held on June 1 and 8, from 9 a.m. – 12 .m. at the Nelson School.

The program was launched in 2008 and the NOJO joined the project two summers ago, bringing in Mayfield’s extensive know-how and contacts. The group also hosts a Saturday music school at the University of New Orleans through the spring and fall semesters.

Anyone interested in sponsoring a Project Prodigy student’s $50 registration fee is invited to contact Ashley Floyd ([email protected]).

More Info: www.thenojo.com