What is PYJO?

PYJO brings young musicians together. Students from Portland and the surrounding areas (as far as North Salem, Battleground, WA, Forest Grove, & East of Gresham) meet once a week, in Southwest Portland, at the M.U.S.E. office (3158 SW 87th Ave) to rehearse and study the in the American art form of Jazz.

There are 4 PYJO bands of different levels and age groups. During the school year, sessions are 6-11 weeks long. Week-long sessions are offered in the summer.

Each band performs at least one concert per session in a public setting. All students are encouraged to play at least one solo, most perform improvised solos.

Band members are responsible for preparing their music, their solos, making it to the gig on time, and communicating with the directors when conflicts arise.

PYJO challenges up-and-coming musicians. Fast-paced rehearsals are packed with improvisation methods, music theory, exercises in all keys, rhythmic training, improving sightreading, listening, composition, and preparation of songs & solos for upcoming performances.  Students are expected to practice outside of class and are given tools to make practice more fun and effective.

Teacher education is a high priority for us. Clinics are available to local schools and student leaders are given opportunities to lead sectionals and work with younger students. Exceptional students who display traits of future educators are encouraged to become student directors in younger bands.

PYJO is fun! Rehearsals move fast and boggle the brain; but are always full of laughs. The Medlers have a great connection with their students. Getting results with positive energy.

The Medlers, husband and wife, have been involved in Portland, Oregon’s music scene since the mid-1990’s.Together they have run the Ben Medler Big Band 1994-97, directed, as artists in residence, an award-winning band program at Wilson High School 1994-2001; obtained Performance degrees in Jazz studies from Portland State University in 2001; and are active performers in various bands of all styles of music. Ben teaches Jazz combos and Jazz Trombone at Portland State University. Michelle has a lesson studio where she teaches saxophone, flute, & clarinet. They offer clinics to school bands around the region. Both are dedicated to Jazz education. More...