Student Stories
Seattle Jazz Academy students follow many different musical paths — from conservatory study and professional performance to lifelong participation in the art of music. These stories reflect the study, mentorship, discipline, and creative community that shape life at the Academy.
Musical Pathways
Seattle Jazz Academy students continue on to conservatories, universities, and creative music programs throughout the country. While every student’s path is unique, these musicians represent a shared commitment to deep study, creativity, and artistic growth.
Beckett van Dyck — Berklee College of Music 2026
Awarded a full-tuition scholarship to Berklee College of Music for Screen Scoring, Beckett submitted original compositions and completed Berklee’s audition process in performance, improvisation, sight reading, and interview. A longtime Seattle Jazz Academy student, Beckett’s work reflects years of serious study, creativity, and musical growth.
Ken Castillo — Manhattan School of Music
2026
Accepted to and committed to study at Manhattan School of Music, Ken has been a longtime member of the Seattle Jazz Academy community. His growth as a musician reflects years of focused study, consistency, and artistic dedication, and we’re excited to see the next chapter of his musical life take shape in New York City.
Gyalpo Ngoche — Oberlin College
2026
Accepted to Oberlin College to study music, Gyalpo is a singer and bassist whose development reflects years of thoughtful study, creativity, and consistent work. We’re excited to see where his musical path continues from here.
Taejas Subramanian — Oberlin College TIMARA Program
2026
Accepted to and committed to Oberlin College’s TIMARA program (Technology in Music and Related Arts), Taejas has been a thoughtful and creative presence within the Seattle Jazz Academy community. His interests in improvisation, technology, composition, and jazz continue to shape a unique and evolving musical path.
Ellis Detroit — William Paterson University
2025
After graduating last year, Ellis continued their musical studies at William Paterson University on the East Coast. A vocal student of Alex Baird and Isabella DuGraf at Seattle Jazz Academy, Ellis brought dedication, creativity, and a strong artistic presence (as well as strong vocalese!) to the community during their time at SJA.
Alex Baird — California State University Long Beach
2024
Seattle Jazz Academy instructor and vocalist Alex Baird received the Ella Fitzgerald Vocal Jazz Scholarship at California State University Long Beach, where she is continuing her graduate studies in music. A thoughtful educator, performer, and mentor within the SJA community, Alex has played an important role in the musical growth of many students during her time at the Academy. Aside from starting the vocal program at SJA, Alex was also a dedicated piano instructor. She is doing big things in the world, keep an eye out for her!
Reflections from students
Music study is deeply personal. These reflections from students, families, and adult learners offer a glimpse into the experience of practicing, performing, and growing within the Seattle Jazz Academy community.
Luke Mhyre - Trumpet player and SJA student
Alexia Newgord - Founding SJA student, jazz piano.
Mark Weaver - Founding SJA student, jazz piano.
Curtis Wen - Founding SJA student, jazz piano and drums.
Community reviews
Read additional reflections and reviews from Seattle Jazz Academy students and families on Google (click here).
Life at the academy
From rehearsals and performances to conversations between classes, Seattle Jazz Academy is built around shared musical experiences and creative community. These moments reflect the energy, friendships, and daily life that grow through the study of music.
Find your voice through music
Whether studying music for the first time or continuing toward advanced artistic goals, Seattle Jazz Academy offers an environment centered on serious study, creativity, mentorship, and community.We invite students of all ages and experience levels to explore private lessons, ensembles, group classes, and performance opportunities at the Academy.