SoCal Jazz Academy, established in 2019 by bassist and educator Dr. Karim Yengsep, is a jazz education program dedicated to fostering musicianship in Orange County, California.

In 2025, the Academy expanded its reach by acquiring Music Around, a neighborhood music school, taking over its lease and facilities. This transition integrated SoCal Jazz Academy’s curriculum into Music Around’s offerings, enriching its programs with a strong focus on jazz education.

Meanwhile, Music Around now oversees administrative and operational functions, allowing the Academy to concentrate on providing high-quality jazz instruction and mentorship to students of all ages. You can find out more about pricing and onboarding options here.