Welcome to Jazz Orchestra!

Whether this is your first time or another time in Jazz Orchestra, we're going to have a great year! Here is what you can expect from band and expect to do this year. 

What do you want out of Jazz Orchestra​?

Jazz Orchestra is a home to all sorts of students:

• Students who want to improve on their instrument
• Students who want to work hard 
• Students who look to excel at jazz

Whatever you are into is perfect. We can do that!

Practicing

Do you want to get better? It starts with the choice to practice. Not sure what to practice? Ask your teacher!

Main Goals of Jazz Orchestra​

• Main Band Goals outlined in the Band Handbook
• Learn the necessary skills for post-high school jazz
  • Mastery of many jazz styles and necessary drumset grooves
  • Good time
  • Advancing Improvisation
    • Various Chord Changes
    • Various Chord Progressions
    • Solid Rhythmic Development
    • Linear Harmony based language

Limited Instrumentation of Jazz Ensembles

It is, educationally speaking, not appropriate for jazz ensembles to be what could be considered a "jazz army." In more specific terms, when jazz ensembles become too large, the learning of the individuals, in addition to the academic rigor and musicality of the ensemble are negatively affected. For these reasons, Jazz Workshop and Jazz Orchestra carry an enrollment cap for each instrument as outlined below. The director may at their discretion, choose to deviate from this plan.

Jazz Workshop is open to all 9-12 saxophonists (9 maximum), Trombonists (6 maximum), Trumpeters (6 maximum), Pianists (2 maximum), Guitarists (2 maximum), Bassists (2 maximum), and Drummers (2 maximum). In the event that more students are interested, auditions may be held at the discretion of the director. Previous enrollment in either jazz ensemble does not guarantee continued enrollment--see Audition Information in the band handbook for further details.

Jazz Orchestra is open to all 9-12 students by audition. For winds, a traditional big band instrumentation is sought after as outlined below. Exceptions to this philosophy are at the discretion of the director. Previous enrollment in either jazz ensemble does not guarantee continued enrollment--see Audition Information for further details.
Alto Saxophone - 2
Tenor Saxophone - 2
Baritone Saxophone - 1
Trombone - 4
Trumpet - 4
Non Traditional Jazz Instruments: Flutes, Clarinets, French Horn, etc are accepted at the discretion of the director. 
Rhythm Section Instrumentation:
Pianists (2 maximum), Guitarists (2 maximum), Bassists (2 maximum), and drummers (2 maximum). ​

What does Jazz Orchestra want out of you?

Being in Jazz Orchestra comes with a certain set of responsibilities. Here is why:

• You are here because you were chosen to be
• You are here because you are musically ready to be here
• There are others who want to be here who may not have been chosen

What are those responsibilities?

• Uphold the expectations outlined in the band handbook
• Try hard, no matter what
• Deliver Musically. This means that you HAVE TO know your music and play it well

We play music that is challenges us more heavily for music technique and musical connection with our classmates. It is your job to rise up to these challenges by practicing your parts and by being engaged in rehearsal.