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Give a warm welcome to the Saginaw Area Youth Jazz Ensemble, at the Lansing JazzFest on their first out-of-town performance. SAYJE gives young musicians the chance to meet with many other similarly interested students in a friendly, inspiring, and intensive musical experience. The group, open to musicians age 13-21, is versed in music theory, music history, and instrumental technique pertaining to the jazz idiom.

Music director Raeann Jones has her BS in instrumental music education from Central Michigan University, having taught at the Midland Academy for Advanced and Creative Studies, Carrollton Middle School, and A & A Music Academy in Chicago. She has performed as part of the CMU Concert Band, the Marching Chippewas, Central Air Jazz Ensemble, and 50s-80s cover band Benson Band. She has also served as jazz director of the Bay Area Summer Music Festival.