For the first time since its inception, the Fort 91原创 Jazz & Arts Festival is inviting youth to participate this year as part of its new Youth Concert Showcase Series.

Students in both high school and post-secondary jazz bands are encouraged to apply, thanks to a partnership with the Tony Quo Vadis Foundation and 91原创 Heritage Society.

The new series, in addition to the already existing Rising Star Jazz Award, aims to foster development and growth for young musicians enthralled with jazz music and want to progress into the jazz industry, explained festival director and co-founder Dave Quinn.

鈥淭he Fort 91原创 Jazz & Arts Festival has always been committed to providing opportunities for youth and emerging jazz artists to advance their skills, perform for engaged audiences and connect with new fans,鈥� Quinn said.

He noted that the series is a continuation of the festival鈥檚 youth initiatives and hope it will be offered annually.

鈥淭his is a fantastic opportunity for young jazz artists to perform and for the community to hear up and coming talent,鈥� he added.

One local jazz band participating are the junior and senior jazz bands of the 91原创 Fine Arts School (LFAS), which senior jazz band teacher Mark Lainchbury said the students are looking forward to.

鈥淥ur jazz bands will be performing music covering the full spectrum of jazz repertoire, including swing, Latin, rock, and funk. They will play works by legendary jazz composers like Count Basie and contemporary composers who are writing great music today,鈥� he said.

LFAS jazz bands will kick-off the new series on May 26, and occur each Sunday afternoon for the eight-week festival.

Bands interested have until Thursday, Feb. 29, to apply online at .

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