WE DID IT!
Because of the incredible support, passion, and advocacy from this community, the NYSSMA (New York State School Music Association) Board has voted to CONTINUE Vocal Jazz in All-State as we know it.
What began as a petition became a meaningful and productive conversation between educators and NYSSMA leadership — and together, we helped create real, positive change for students across New York State.
As a result, NYSSMA President, Kathy Perconti, has indicated that the following improvements will begin to be implemented:
- VOCAL JAZZ WILL REMAIN AN OFFICIAL ALL-STATE ENSEMBLE PROGRAM!
- NYSSMA will add a Level 5 Vocal Jazz category. Until now, Vocal Jazz only existed at Level 6.
- Vocal Jazz sight-reading requirements will no longer be based solely on Blues patterns, but will instead align with the sight-reading expectations used for other NYSSMA choral solos. This is an especially important and exciting victory for accessibility and fairness.
- Level 4 Vocal Jazz solos will be added by 2028, creating more opportunities for younger students to participate and grow.
- Even more exciting discussions are already underway, including the possibility of NYSSMA bringing jazz educators to work with choral teachers throughout the state.
This happened because almost one thousand people spoke up — educators, students, parents, alumni, musicians, and supporters of arts education. Your voices mattered.
Thank you for helping preserve and strengthen this uniquely American art form for future generations!