Jazz Ensemble is an extracurricular ensemble that meets after school 1-2 days a week throughout the year. The band performs a wide variety of styles including swing, ballad, latin, funk, rock, etc, and is the face of the program outside of marching season. Standard instrumentation includes alto saxophone, tenor saxophone, baritone saxophone, trumpet, trombone, clarinet (one chair), drum set and auxiliary (such as vibraphone), bass, guitar, and piano.

 Fair Share Assessment

There is a $200 fair share assessment for membership in the ensemble which covers the cost of music, festival registration, clinicians and equipment. The full amount is normally due by November 1st. There are scholarships available for students – please reach out to Mr. Meade if this amount is a hardship!

In addition, new students are asked to purchase the uniform blue dress shirt at an approximate cost of $25 before their first performance. A complete uniform consists of black dress pants and shoes with a shirt.

Attendance

The jazz ensemble is an auditioned group. Auditions occur during the week before school and the first Wednesday of the school year after school. Materials will be posted on the website and in the BAND apps once it’s available (posted in late May/early June). Auditional material normally includes a tune out of the Real Book, swung major scales to the 9th, and sightreading. Improv is not required but encouraged!