FAQs

What is the Longmont All-Star Jazz Band?
The Longmont All-Star Jazz Band (LASJB) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit jazz ensemble based in Longmont, Colorado. We bring together some of the most talented high school jazz musicians from the St. Vrain Valley and Boulder Valley School Districts for a professional, high-quality jazz education experience that goes well beyond the typical school music program. Think of it as the next level — for students who are serious about jazz and ready to be pushed.

How did the band get started?
The LASJB was founded in 2001 by Bill Wilkinson — and honestly, if it weren’t for him, none of this would exist. Bill built something special from the ground up in Longmont, creating a home for young jazz musicians in the community. That legacy is very much alive in everything we do today, and we’re proud to carry it forward with the same spirit he started it with.

Who leads the band?
The LASJB is led by Music Director and President Gavin Worland: READ MORE>>

The band is governed by a volunteer BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Is the LASJB affiliated with a school or school district?
Nope — we’re an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. We draw our membership from students in the SVVSD and BVSD areas, but we operate completely outside of any school or district structure. That means more flexibility, a different kind of repertoire, and a different kind of experience than what you’d find in a school jazz band.

Who is eligible to join?
Any current high school student enrolled in a St. Vrain Valley or Boulder Valley school district school is eligible to audition. You need to be on an instrument that fits within a jazz big band, and you need to be ready to commit to the season.

How do I audition?
Auditions for the 2026–2027 season are on August 3rd, 2026 at Longmont Presbyterian United Methodist Church (LPUMC). As we get closer, we’ll publish a detailed audition guide and an online sign-up form. Keep an eye on our social media and website for updates.

What does a typical rehearsal look like?
We rehearse at Longs Peak United Methodist Church on a regular schedule throughout the season. Rehearsals are professional, high-energy, and move fast — we play a lot, we correct, and we play again. Don’t expect to coast. Occasionally we’ll run sectionals or bring in a clinician for a masterclass. The vibe is genuinely fun and pretty laid back — but the expectations are real.

Is there homework?
Yes — know your part, and listen to jazz. A lot of it. That’s the baseline for big band members. If you are in the combo, expect more: improvisation practice and jazz theory are part of the deal on top of your regular part preparation.