The Sandhills Jazz Society is creating meaningful opportunities for students through engaging production classes, interactive workshops and unforgettable live performance experiences.
“This whole program consists of three different steps,” said Tina Turner, event director for the Sandhills Jazz Society. “We have a life production class, a free workshop facilitated by Dr. Jazmin Ghent and three live shows.”
She added, “All of this is because of a community impact grant through Cumberland County, so all of the classes and everything we are able to do are free of charge.”
The program is an excellent opportunity for young, inspiring artists who are passionate about music production and the performing arts.
“We are committed to nurturing their creativity while equipping them with essential technical skills that can serve as a foundation for future endeavors,” said Turner.
“Our program is designed to be inclusive, accessible, and engaging, ensuring that youth from diverse backgrounds have the opportunity to develop their talents and amplify their voices.”
The music exploration workshop takes place Saturday, May 30, from 11 a.m. to noon. The presenter is Dr. Jazmin Ghent, an award-winning international jazz saxophonist and educator, who has quickly emerged as a powerful voice in contemporary jazz, R&B and gospel music. Throughout her rising career, she has earned recognition as a dynamic performer and influential leader among the new generation of artists shaping the sound of modern jazz. Jazmin’s journey into the jazz industry gained momentum after her standout appearance in the Show Your Talent competition aboard The Smooth Jazz Cruise in 2014, where she captured attention with her exceptional talent and stage presence.
“Jazmin will discuss how to get into music, discuss the music industry and play some songs,” said Turner. “We decided that she would be a good fit for our music exploration workshop because she travels all over the world doing workshops.”
The live production classes, which are already in progress, aim to engage inspiring musicians in the exciting world of music production and live music creation. The culmination of classes will be a Jazz series that will allow students to work side by side with professionals.
“Our goal is to show the children from beginning to end how to do a live production,” said Turner. “In the live production classes, they are learning how to set up the cables, how to hook up the monitors and everything so by the time that they are finished, they should be able to have a really good grasp on what it takes to put on a show.”
She added, “Each class is hands-on, providing direct experience with professional-grade equipment and software and instructors.”
The live shows take place on Friday, May 29, at 7 p.m., and Saturday, May 30, at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the Ambiance of Fayetteville at 2510 Legion Rd. The live shows and workshops are free, but a ticket is required for entry. For tickets and more info, visit www.sandhillsjazz.com.
“Young people today have powerful voices and creative ideas, but they often lack the resources, training and mentorship to develop their artistic and technical skills,” said Turner.
“By providing structured workshops, professional mentorship, and access to industry-standard tools, we will nurture the next generation of storytellers, musicians and content creators.”
Sandhills Jazz Society also offers music classes inside the historic Orange Street School building.
“It is under Parks & Recreation, but we offer drums and piano classes because we are in charge of teaching the classes,” said Turner.
The organization’s mission is to promote interest in jazz music across multiple generations, to actively engage a new generation in the efforts of the society and to have fun producing the annual All-American City Jazz Festival. Access to music education and the arts is so important, especially during a child’s formative years.
“We are trying to bring more programs like this for children who are interested in music,” said Turner. “There is really a need especially with the funding being cut from schools and we’re getting great responses from the kids and parents about our music program.”
A one-week half-day summer camp will be offered in the future. Learn more about Dr. Jazmin Ghent at https://jazminghentmusic.com/. For more information or to become a sponsor, call 910-987-2426 or visit www.sandhillsjazz.com.

(Photo courtesy of Sandhills Jazz Society's Facebook page)