South County is home to
a thriving Jazz program. Students of all grade
levels have the opportunity to learn about this uniquely
American music form.
At the middle school
level ("4 o'clock Jazz") students will learn how to play
in the jazz style as well as learn the basics of
improvisations. This ensemble is limited to those
who play instruments typically found in a jazz band,
i.e., saxophone, trumpet, trombone, drum set, piano,
guitar and bass. If a student wishes to play in
the jazz band but doesn't play a "jazz instrument" they
are welcome and encouraged to learn a new instrument.
There are two jazz
bands at the High School level. The 3 o'clock Jazz
group meets after school and can be taken for an 8th
class credit. This ensemble is run in a true
"workshop" fashion. Any person on any instrument
is welcome to join us to learn about jazz. We will
learn many things regarding jazz history, style and
improvisation. The Stallion Jazz Band is South
County's top level jazz band. This class meets
during the school day and studies more advanced levels
of jazz technique and improvising. Members of this
class perform with the Symphonic Band in addition to
their jazz studies.
All South County Jazz Bands perform in several
concerts throughout the year and attend the Chantilly
Jazz Festival in March. At this festival they have
the opportunity to perform in front of a panel of judges
that will give them a score and a private clinic
following their performance. Individual and group
honors are awarded for the top performers.
|