South Coast Jazz Ensemble

Several styles of Jazz- Blues, Swing, Funk, Rock, Pop, and Latin are learned in this class and are performed throughout the semester in a “big band” ensemble format.  Students will also learn various scales and develop improvisational skills for their level.  This ensemble will plan to perform regularly and attendance is expected for all scheduled events.  Members of the Jazz Band may also be expected to cover parts for the concert band as needed by the director.  Enrollment in this class is based on an audition and director’s approval.  Auditions are in May and an honors section is now available in addition to standard.

Formed in 2022, the ensemble has already developed a strong reputation in the region by placing students in the NCJR East Region jazz bands, receiving multiple superior ratings (2023, 2024, 2025) at the NC Jazz Region's Music Performance Adjudication and Music in the Parks hosted in Rock Hill, SC, performances at the UNCW Jazz Festival, a performance on the deck of the USS North Carolina, and several performances for elementary schools, local civic groups, local events, and the community at large.   In 2025, they also premiered "Set The Standard," a new work for jazz ensemble composed by Mike Tomaro, as a commission project enabled through the generosity of grants from the Brunswick Arts Council, the Brunswick Bands, Inc., and private donors.

Auditions for the 2026 Jazz Ensemble will be via video submission.  Please contact Mr. Palmer if interested.

Students should use the appropriate version of Blue Monk below and record themselves playing the head (the written part) and then 12 bars of improvisation in Bb Blues over a backing track.