Education

It’s rare in life to encounter a teacher whose impact resonates far beyond the classroom—who transforms not only how we play music, but how we exist as artists. Maja Jaku is that kind of educator,
that kind of musician, and that kind of person.
I had the privilege of studying under Maja Jaku during my time at JAM Music Lab University, where I’ve spent the past four years. My first two years were marked by uncertainty and hesitation. I often felt unseen, not quite grounded in my identity as a musician. That changed entirely when I joined Maja’s Stageband ensemble. From the first rehearsal, it was clear I was no longer just participating—I was being challenged, nurtured, and awakened.
Maja doesn’t merely instruct; she unlocks. She has the rare ability to bring out a student’s essence.
Under her guidance, I became not just a better drummer but a more fluid, expressive, and honest musician. She pushed me, yes—but always with care, with precision, with purpose. Her methods are
rooted in decades of experience, distilled from her mentors—Sheila Jordan, Andy Bey, Mark Murphy, Jay Clayton—yet fully her own. She embodies what she teaches and passes it down with
unshakeable integrity.
Through Maja, I learned how to listen—not only to music, but to myself. She instilled confidence, self-awareness, and a deep sense of musicality in me, and I’ve witnessed her do the same for countless others. Many students who entered JAM unsure of their place in music have emerged under her guidance transformed: no longer students, but true musicians—intentional, present, and profoundly engaged. That is Maja’s greatest gift as an educator: she doesn’t just teach jazz—she makes jazz alive in people.
I’ve also had the immense honor of performing alongside her in professional settings. Even there, the learning never stopped. On stage, she remains a teacher of presence, of freedom, of courage. Her
voice is unlike anything I’ve ever heard: cinematic, otherworldly, yet deeply rooted in human truth. As someone who has traveled the world, worked with many great artists, and seen a wide spectrum of
musical expression, I can say without hesitation: Maja Jaku stands singular. When she sings, the room shifts. It becomes a scene from a film, a moment suspended in time.
But what makes Maja extraordinary is not just her artistry or her academic excellence. It’s her spirit. She brings compassion, depth, and unwavering devotion into everything she does. She creates an
environment where students feel seen, supported, and inspired. Her presence is magnetic, yet humble. She leads not from a pedestal, but through connection. She challenges students to rise—and
shows them that they can.
Maja Jaku is not only a world-class artist and educator—she is a beacon. A poet. A force. A mentor whose legacy is already evident in the students who now stand tall because of her belief in them.
It is with deep gratitude and utmost conviction that I recommend her, not only as a professor of music but as a visionary who continues to shape the future of jazz and the hearts of those who dare to learn
it.

When I first started working with Maja, she was really tough on me. But now I understand why. She saw something in me — hope, potential, and talent — even when I didn’t see it myself. She never gave up on me, and because of that, I’ve made more progress than I ever imagined.

Maja is still guiding me, still preparing me for big stages and even bigger dreams. She pushes me to be my best, and at the same time, she’s always there with love, support, and understanding. She’s more than just a teacher to me — she’s like my music mom.

No matter what I need, she’s always there. She believes in me, she helps me grow, and she makes me feel like I can do anything. I truly, deeply love her, and I’m so grateful that God brought her into my life.

Anyone who gets the chance to work with her is incredibly blessed. She changes lives — just like she changed mine.

The most transformative moment in my journey as a singer and artist was meeting Maja Jaku at the age of 16 and beginning my vocal training with her. Working with Maja has been far more than a technical education in singing—though her mastery of vocal technique sets the highest standard. What she offers goes beyond what can be measured: profound insight, a holistic approach to the art of singing, and a deep artistic philosophy that continues to shape me to day. Above all, she instilled in me the most vital truth—that truly powerful singing must come from the soul to be genuine, moving & authentic.

Maja has given me so much – I had the privilege of taking lessons with her for two years and learning from her experience and her approach to music, especially jazz and improvisation. It wasn’t just about vocal technique, but also about important aspects of the music industry, which I greatly value and actively apply today. Through her, I learned a lot about my instrument: how to use my voice consciously – without fear and without overstraining it. For that, I am especially grateful to her. The lessons were challenging, enriching, and always varied. Her unmistakable groove and sense of rhythm made the sessions something special, and she shaped and developed me musically as a singer and artist. Learning from her was truly a gift.

Maja Jaku was so much more than a vocal coach to me – she was a mirror, a driving force, and an honest companion on my artistic journey. Her teaching style is direct, raw, and without filters – sometimes challenging, but exactly what I needed to confront my deepest fears and insecurities.

Through Maja, I learned how to truly show myself on stage – not just as a singer, but as an artist. She helped me recognize the uniqueness of my voice and, more importantly, how to embrace and express it with confidence.

One of the most valuable things she taught me was where my voice really shines – which genres suit me, what kind of artists I might be inspired by, and how to find my own musical identity. Her suggestions were never random – they always hit home and opened up new creative paths for me.

I also grew a lot technically, especially in breath control and in learning how to channel emotions through my singing. She helped me explore the world of jazz improvisation and gave me the tools to grow within it.

Maja is raw and real. An incredible voice. A powerful presence. And a vocal coach who challenges you, but also lifts you up. She holds up a mirror without mercy – but she always stands right behind you with full support. She offers great performance opportunities and pushes you in a very special, inspiring way. Plus, she brings a lot of fun to the process – including the occasional drink together after a concert!

I’m deeply grateful for everything I’ve learned from her.