Student musicians can learn from local Latin jazz musicians and educators.

Nuestro Tiempo, a free jazz ensemble sponsored by JazzArts Charlotte, is open to middle and high school students and combines traditional jazz with Latin jazz. The program includes the classical repertoire, the rhythm of the claves and the history of Latin jazz led by educator/trumpeter Julio Jeri, MM, and ethnomusicologist, Afro-Cuban drummer and Latin jazz specialist Johnny Conga.

“We have dreamed of launching this program for several years, JazzArts Charlotte is truly thrilled to have these amazing partners share our vision of expanding our service to the community with such a special opportunity.” said JazzArts Charlotte CEO and co-founder Lonnie Davis.

Nuestro Tiempo sessions will be held Thursday evenings from February 24 through May 26 at the VAPA Center, 700 N. Tryon St. Middle and high school student musicians with at least one year of instrumental experience (woodwinds, brass, percussion, rhythm section and vocals) can participate and auditions are required. They will take place on February 10 and 17.

The scholarships will be made available by the sponsors of the Blue Cross Blue Shield NC program and the Arts & Science Council. The goal of the Arts and Sciences Council’s Cultural Vision Grant is to build community by nurturing, celebrating and supporting authentic cultures and creative expression. Blue Cross Blue Shield is committed to funding local arts organizations with initiatives that support underserved communities by generating access to the arts and diversity in the arts.

For more information and to register for an audition, go to www.thejazzarts.org/education.