JazzArts Charlotte, a nonprofit dedicated to the promotion, education and preservation of jazz, will launch a free music workshop this spring for students in grades 7-12.

According to a statement released Monday, the Nuestro Tiempo Latin Jazz Youth Ensemble will celebrate diversity, culture and life values through the lens of music. (Nuestro Tiempo is Spanish for “our time.”)

The workshop is open to all instruments and vocals, and students with at least one year of instrumental experience (woodwinds, brass, rhythm section, vocals or percussion) are encouraged to participate. 

The program will span 12 weeks, from Feb. 24 to May 26. Sessions will be held on Thursday evenings at VAPA Center. Space is limited, so auditions are required. Auditions are scheduled for Feb. 10 and Feb. 17.

The program will be funded by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina and the Arts & Science Council.

“JazzArts Charlotte is truly thrilled to have these amazing partners share our vision for expanding our service to the community with such a special opportunity,” Lonnie Davis, JazzArts Charlotte’s CEO and co-founder, said in the statement.