Congratulations to the student musicians in the jazz program from South High School in Downers Grove for an outstanding showing at the 2018 Purdue Jazz Festival. Three big bands and two chamber ensembles performed and competed with more than 100 high school ensembles from five states in the Midwest. In addition to receiving a score from the panel of adjudicators in each room, each group received real time formative feedback from each judge in an audio recording. Having a set of unbiased, professional judges provide a formative “sonic snapshot” is essential to the continuing growth of both individual students and the ensembles.
Of the five performing ensembles, two groups earned a Division I rating and three groups earned a Division II rating. In addition to the outstanding ensemble performances, 10 students were recognized by the panel of judges for displaying outstanding musicianship either in improvised solos or in their ensemble playing.
“We are proud of these student musicians for their dedication to individual and group excellence in jazz performance.” said director Glenn Williams. “On and off the stage this student musicians represented our school and community in the finest possible manner. I’m fiercely proud to travel with these students and have them represent our learning community in such a professional manner.”
Photos and videos, archived on the Mustang Band Booster Web Site by Mr. Brandt, can be located by CLICKING HERE.
Photos and videos, archived on the Mustang Band Booster Web Site by Mr. Brandt, can be located by CLICKING HERE.
2018 Outstanding Soloist/Musician Awards
Morgan Erickson, baritone saxophone
Agne Giedraityte, piano/vocals
Eric Herstowksi, drum set
Belly Kelly, violin/vocals (2)
Matt Leinart, alto saxophone
Josh Nwonye, bass
Matt Perry, trumpet
Derek Reynolds, trumpet
Isaac Rutledge, alto saxophone (2)
Nathan Wiechec, trombone
