PASO ROBLES — Paso Robles Joint Unified School District is showcasing a unique opportunity for student musicians through the Libretto Conservatory Program, a free jazz training initiative at Libretto. Directed by Los Angeles-based jazz educator Michael Ragonese, the program offers high school and college students intensive training in improvisation, transposition, composition, and small-group performance. Funded through Libretto memberships and community donations, students participate at no cost.

The inaugural cohort includes PRHS students Emery Teale (piano), Max Toohey-Bergvall (drums), Ayden Moreno (bass), Christian Serna (trombone), and PRHS Class of 2025 graduate Kyle Dart (guitar). Students completed a summer intensive, a five-week fall session, and a two-week January intensive, each ending with a live performance at Libretto.

Participants have also worked with nationally recognized jazz artists, including Alex Hahn, Sullivan Fortner, Joel Ross, and Taylor Eigsti, gaining masterclass experiences that mirror collegiate-level study.

“This opportunity has had a profound impact on our students,” said PRHS Band Director Humberto Cera. “They return to our jazz band with increased confidence, stronger improvisational skills, and the ability to perform independently in small ensembles. Experiences like this not only strengthen individual musicianship but enrich our entire program.”

The initiative demonstrates the value of community partnerships in providing students with professional-level training while strengthening Paso Robles’ local arts ecosystem.