Educational Endeavors
Education is central to The Kansas City Jazz Orchestra’s mission and purpose. It is through this commitment to the next generation of jazz enthusiasts that we may best carry out our mission of perpetuating the art form. The following is a list of programs that the KCJO currently offers. Several others are under development with plans to launch in the near future. These programs can be supported through sponsorship or through contributions to our Scholarship Programs.
The KCKCC/KCJO Jazz Camp is a week long summer day camp held on the campus of Kansas City Kansas Community College. The program serves approximately 50 music students each year. The ages of camp participants range from 13 to adult. The ability levels range from beginner to advanced. The camp focuses on jazz improvisation skills in a small group or “combo” setting. Scholarships are awarded to camp attendees based on financial need and musical commitment.
Master Classes and clinics are offered by select guest artists at Kansas City Kansas Community College in conjunction with their concert series performance. These clinics are open and free to the public. Clinics may also be offered at area schools by KCJO members and may include a joint concert performance. All concert proceeds benefit the high school’s band club. Funding is currently being sought for the following programs:
Music Scholars is a partnership between the KCJO and Kansas City Kansas Community College and developed in cooperation with the KCK School District’s music directors. The program will provide underserved students in the Kansas City, Kansas School district private music lessons. Lessons will be instructed by area professionals including members of the KCJO. Lessons will take place on Wednesday afternoons at Kansas City Kansas Community College.
The Kansas City Jazz Orchestra currently has three established scholarship programs to support our community’s aspiring musicians.
The Jack G. Botteron, Jr. Jazz Camp Scholarship
The Jack G. Botteron, Jr. Jazz Camp Scholarship was established by members of Jack’s family in his loving memory. Jack was a trumpet player and lifelong student of music. Jack attended the KCKCC/KCJO Jazz Camp for several years and inspired many students with his enthusiasm and love of music. Scholarships are awarded each year to deserving students to attend the camp.
The Kenneth C. Cox Jazz Scholarship
The Kenneth C. Cox Jazz Scholarship was established in the memory of a long-time supporter of music and music education. Ken was the Selmer Music Company representative in Kansas City and was actively involved in the music and jazz community. The Kenneth C. Cox Jazz Scholarship will support saxophone students wishing to attend the KCKCC/KCJO Jazz Improvisation Camp.
The Jim Mullinix Scholarship for Higher Education
The Jim Mullinix Scholarship for Higher Education was established by members of Jim’s family to support the ongoing education of a student or students with financial need. Jim Mullinix was an instructor at Kansas City Kansas Community College before his death at age 37.
Contributions to these scholarships can be made using the contribution form on