High School JAZZ Program
The high school Jazz Program is an extracurricular activity that requires time outside of school. Students must participate in instrumental music to qualify. The program includes 1-2 ensemble bands and 4-5 five combos, depending on available players. These jazz groups are led by HS Music Director Robert Wheeler and adjunct staff Jason St. Pierre and Duane Edwards. Jazz rehearsals usually kick off in October. Combos and ensembles rehearse once a week after school or in the evening.
Middle School Jazz Program
Jazz Fundamentals is open to interested seventh grade band members. This performance-based class will introduce classic jazz tunes while incorporating jazz history. Additionally, interested students will learn basic improvisational skills. Informal performances may take place in the spring. Jazz Fundamentals rehearses on Thursday mornings at 6:55am.
Jazz Band is a performance ensemble for eighth-grade band members. The jazz band will perform for the school and at the annual Jazz Cabaret in March. Jazz Band rehearses on Tuesday mornings at 6:55am.
Students must be in concert band in order to participate in Jazz Fundamentals or Jazz Band. Exceptions are occasionally made for guitar, bass, and piano students that are taking private lessons and can play at the level required to participate in the groups. Drummers must be studying drum set privately and be able to play at the level required to participate in the groups. Students interested in playing rhythm section instruments (drums, bass, guitar, piano) will need to audition as there limited spots for those instruments. Jazz groups begin in late October.