NYSSMA Vocal Jazz is about to be cut and replaced with a Contemporary Vocal Ensemble. Let’s be clear: adding new programs is great—but not if it means eliminating Vocal Jazz.

Jazz is a uniquely American art form. It is complex, historic, and irreplaceable—and it must be preserved and taught to the next generation, not phased out.

As a professional musician, I can say without exaggeration that my high school NYSSMA vocal jazz program changed my life. It gave me confidence, discipline, and a deep understanding of music that shaped my entire career. For many students, this program is where they find their voice, their community, and their future.

Vocal Jazz is not the same as pop singing. The unique and most talented pop artists in history have their training in jazz. Vocal jazz requires advanced musical skills—like understanding complex harmonies, improvisation, and intricate rhythms. As Diana Spradling, former Professor of Vocal Jazz at Syracuse University, explains:

“Vocal Jazz Ensembles have a structural technique that requires a degree of advanced musical skill and an established understanding of music theory especially in identifying and tuning complex chord structures and improvisational skills - not to mention intricate rhythmic content.”

This is a unique and rigorous opportunity that students cannot replace if it disappears.

Carol Jacobe, co-founder of the NYSSMA Vocal Jazz Program, puts it plainly:

“I have no problem with a Contemporary Vocal Ensemble, but it should not replace the current vocal jazz group. Would we ask any of our All-State ensembles to replace their core style with ‘pop’ music? I don’t think so. It is important that vocal students of jazz be given the same opportunity of the style of music they auditioned for.”

NYSSMA administrators have cited two primary reasons for considering the elimination of the 30-plus year All-State Vocal Jazz program. First, they claim that accommodating both vocal groups (jazz and contemporary) would present scheduling and logistical challenges, despite the fact that the combined enrollment would total only approximately 24–27 students. Second, they point to declining participation numbers — a trend influenced not only by the lingering effects of COVID-19, but also by the lack of specialized vocal jazz training and resources available to many music educators.

There are always solutions!

Rather than eliminating this invaluable program, NYSSMA should invest in strengthening it by streamlining the audition process to reduce unnecessary complexities and preparation pressures — including the complications of electronics and amplification during auditions — while also expanding school educator support. This could include sending experienced vocal jazz clinicians into school districts multiple times throughout the year to work directly with teachers and student ensembles, helping to build stronger programs and greater student participation statewide.

For students and parents: this decision matters. Losing Vocal Jazz means fewer opportunities for serious music students to grow, be challenged, and be recognized at the highest level in New York State.

We are not asking NYSSMA to reject new ideas—we are asking them not to take something essential away.

Keep Vocal Jazz. Add new programs if you must—but don’t replace it.

Sign this petition to protect opportunities for current and future students.