Jazz Band

Lake Park High School Jazz Program

Course Descriptions

The mission of the Lake Park High School Jazz Program is to develop our students to excel in jazz through education and performance. Emphasis is placed on highlighting the enduring elements and important innovations of this distinctly American music. The Jazz Program is open to students grades nine through twelve of all ability levels; however, to be considered for either a Big Band or a Jazz Combo, you must be currently enrolled in Band, or Choir, and/or a music elective course (i.e. Guitar I/II, AP Music Theory) with immediate intentions to join Band or Choir.

Big Bands at Lake Park High School

Our big bands are modeled after the great swing bands from the 1930’s, 40’s, and 50’s. Big bands have four sections: Saxophone section (5-6 saxes), Trumpet section (4-5 trumpets), Trombone section (4-5 trombones), and a Rhythm section (guitar, piano, bass, drums, and vibes). The LPHS Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Band utilize vocalists when applicable.

LPHS Jazz Ensemble

This is the premier big band at Lake Park High School and intended for the most advanced and serious jazz musicians. The Jazz Ensemble prides itself on pushing the boundaries of what is possible for a high school big band through performing the most challenging jazz literature, utilizing advanced improvisation skills, and performing at festivals and venues around the country. Students are expected to be studying privately on their jazz instrument. The Jazz Ensemble maintains an active performance schedule throughout the year. Interested students must complete an LPHS Jazz Audition to be considered for the Jazz Ensemble.

Rehearsal Schedule:

LPHS Jazz Band (if needed, based on student interest)

The Jazz Band is our entry-level big band. No prior jazz experience is necessary; however, proficiency on your instrument is required. This group establishes the fundamentals of tone production, ensemble sonority, jazz articulation, and beginning improvisation. The Jazz Band performs several times throughout the year, including festival performances. Interested students must complete an LPHS Jazz Audition to be considered for the Jazz Band.

Rehearsal Schedule:

LPHS Jazz Combo

For the more advanced jazz musicians, the LPHS Jazz Combo emphasizes improvisation, arranging/composing, and performance in a small group setting. The LPHS Jazz Combo rehearses once per week; however, members are expected to meet additionally outside of school. In order to be considered for a the Jazz Combo, students must complete an LPHS Jazz Audition and be a member of a Big Band. Students not participating in a Big Band will be considered at the director’s discretion.

Rehearsal Schedule:

TBA