PRHS Students Receive World-Class Jazz Training in Paso Robles
Paso Robles Joint Unified School District is proud to highlight an exceptional opportunity elevating student musicianship through the Libretto Conservatory Program, a free jazz training initiative hosted at Libretto, the internationally recognized jazz venue in downtown Paso Robles owned by Paso Robles High School alumni Corey and Kate Jordan.
Recently named one of the world’s best jazz venues in 2025 and 2026 by DownBeat Magazine, Libretto is not only attracting global talent but also investing directly in the next generation of musicians within the Paso Robles community.
Directed by Los Angeles-based jazz educator Michael Ragonese, the Libretto Conservatory Program provides high school and college students with a rigorous jazz education focused on improvisation, transposition, composition, and small-group performance. The program is funded through Libretto memberships and community donors, ensuring students can participate at no cost.
The program’s inaugural cohort includes Paso Robles High School students Emery Teale (piano), Max Toohey-Bergvall (drums), Ayden Moreno (bass), and Christian Serna (trombone), along with PRHS Class of 2025 graduate Kyle Dart (guitar). All are active members of the PRHS jazz program or recent participants.
Students began their Conservatory experience with a week-long summer intensive, followed by a five-week fall session and a two-week January intensive. Each session concluded with a live performance at Libretto, providing students with professional stage experience in an intimate jazz setting.
Through the program, students have worked with nationally recognized jazz artists including Alex Hahn, Sullivan Fortner, Joel Ross, and Taylor Eigsti, participating in clinics and master classes that mirror collegiate-level jazz 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 Libretto Conservatory Program exemplifies the power of community partnerships in expanding student opportunities beyond the classroom. By connecting local musicians with world-class artists and professional performance experiences, the program is helping cultivate independent, confident performers while strengthening the arts ecosystem in Paso Robles.
About Paso Robles Joint Unified School District
Paso Robles Joint Unified School District serves more than 6,400 students across northern San Luis Obispo County. Guided by its core values of integrity, accountability, collaboration, innovation, compassion, and belonging, PRJUSD is committed to providing a safe, supportive environment where every student feels valued, empowered, and prepared to thrive.
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Paso Robles Joint Unified School District