"Phil and the Jazz monkeys" June 19th, 2026 – Texas Jazz and Blues camp

"Phil and the Jazz monkeys" was a small combo formed for the 11th annual Texas Jazz and Blues Camp led by Ponder East. June 15th, 2026 kicked off the New School of Music Austin’s 11th annual Texas Jazz and Blues camp, hosted at St. Stephen’s Episcopal School, sponsored by Henna Chevrolet, and the City of Austin’s Cultural arts development. Under the leadership of; Executive director and founder of New School of Music Austin, Richard Spencer, The Camps Music director is Don Braden, and the Director of Operations is Ponder East. Thanks to so many students, parents, staff, and friends of the Texas Jazz and Blues camp for making this possible. Students have a unique opportunity to learn throughout the week from top professionals from the jazz and blues scene through small group combos, music theory, and masterclasses. With names like Alan Haynes, Jackie Newhouse, Ernie Durawa, Tom Brechtlein, Chris McQueen, Jay Tillman, and Red Young you know its going to be a great learning experience. This year we had a special guest artist Joel Frahm visit for the day and hangout with the students and give a little advice on improvisation. The last day of camp the students have an opportunity to show off the skills learned on stage with their small combos for their peers, parents, and friends. Parents and staff get a chance to witness the growth and development skills like self-awareness, social awareness and relationship skills, as well as responsible decision-making. The Texas Jazz & Blues Camp welcomes students from 11 to adults, with most in their mid-teens. Previous jazz experience is preferred but not required if the student has the equivalent of 2 years’ experience on their instrument and has an interest in learning to improvise. Each year the camp strives to provide scholarships for up to 50% of the participants. Sponsorships and generous giving allow New School of music Austin the ability to reach out and support the underserved students in and around Austin.