Kent Youth Jazz Orchestra joins the Kent Music family
We’re delighted to share that from September 2026, the Kent Youth Jazz Orchestra (KYJO) will become part of Kent Music.
This is a really positive step for young jazz musicians across the county. KYJO will continue to do what it does best – creating high-quality, inspiring jazz experiences – while becoming part of Kent Music’s wider community of musical groups and opportunities for young people in Kent & Medway.
A much-loved part of Kent’s music scene
KYJO has been at the heart of youth jazz in Kent for over 40 years.
Founded in 1981 as part of Kent Music, the orchestra ran as a County Group for nearly 30 years before becoming independent. Throughout that time, it has supported generations of young musicians to explore big band, swing, Latin, funk and contemporary jazz. From rehearsals in Maidstone to performances across the county, it has built a strong reputation for both musical excellence and a welcoming, supportive environment.
Many former members have gone on to perform at a national level, pursue careers in music, or continue their musical journeys in different ways. Just as importantly, KYJO has remained a place where young people can develop confidence, friendships and a lifelong love of music.
Kent Music are proud to be building on that legacy as part of the Kent Music offer.
Looking ahead
From 1st September 2026, Kent Music will take on responsibility for managing KYJO, integrating it into our county-wide programme.
By bringing KYJO into Kent Music, we can strengthen progression opportunities for young jazz musicians and help more young people across Kent & Medway access high-quality ensemble experiences.
This next chapter is about growing what already works so well; supporting the orchestra to thrive, reach more young musicians and continue to play an important role in Kent’s musical life.
As we take this step together, there’s a real sense of shared excitement about what comes next.
“Welcoming Kent Youth Jazz Orchestra into Kent Music marks an exciting step forward for music education in the county. KYJO brings a rich heritage and a well-established reputation for excellence, alongside a shared commitment to supporting young people to thrive through music.
By bringing KYJO into Kent Music, we can create more opportunities for young musicians across Kent, widening access to high-quality jazz provision and ensuring meaningful, lasting impact for the next generation of young jazz musicians.”
Trevor James, Senior Leader, Tuition, Kent Music
For KYJO, the move reflects both pride in everything the orchestra has achieved so far and confidence in its future within a wider community.
“I am justly proud of the history and achievements of Kent Youth Jazz Orchestra known as ‘KYJO’, and immensely pleased that KYJO is rejoining the Kent Music Family of County Groups.
This will not only give long-term sustainability, but also open up new exciting opportunities, as well as maintaining the spirit and identity of a repertoire youth jazz band that rehearses and gigs all year round.”
John Levett, Chairman of Kent Youth Jazz Orchestra (2016—2026)
What happens next
Until 31st August 2026, KYJO will continue to run as it does now, with rehearsals, performances and membership arrangements unchanged.
We’re working closely with the KYJO Trustees to make sure the transition is smooth, with clear communication for members, families and supporters throughout.
- If you’re a current KYJO member or family, you’ll receive direct updates and information very soon from the Kent Music team.
- If you’re interested in joining, you can now find out more and sign up to join the orchestra through the Kent Music website.
A shared commitment
This move reflects a shared commitment between Kent Music and KYJO’s Trustees to secure the orchestra’s long-term future, while keeping its unique identity and spirit at its core.
Most importantly, it means more young people will have the chance to discover jazz, develop their skills and be part of something special. We’re excited to welcome KYJO into the Kent Music family, and to see – and hear – what comes next.
See KYJO in action
Want to see what KYJO is all about?
Join their next workshop on the 23rd June 2026 at the Stag Plaza Suite, Sevenoaks!
The workshop is an open rehearsal led by celebrated guest tutor Steve Waterman. It will run from 19:00 – 21:30, with a short, informal concert in the final half an hour.
The music is what makes KYJO so special!
Watch performances and get a feel for the band on their YouTube channel: