Jazz Band Tour: Jazzin’ it Up in Halton

Written By: Nino Nguyen, Alyssa Psaila

Photos By: Chaya Burns, August Nsereko-Furlong, Markus Wrona, TL Sutherland

Edited By: Zara Ahluwalia, Madeleine Homer

Contributor: Gloria Shi

On the morning of Friday, February 23rd, 2024, T. A. Blakelock’s Jazz Band and Percussion Ensemble departed on a tour to visit feeder schools, presenting some jazzy tunes and sharing the marvels of music. Driving around, they had visited three schools in total, starting with Pine Grove, then Pilgrim Wood, and finally landing at Brookdale. 

To start off the show, Blakelock’s Percussion Ensemble performed their iconic piece Vous Avez du Feu? by Emmanuel Sejourne. Many of the students were captivated by the rhythmic movements of the mesmerizing flaming lights.

“It was very unique and I never knew that it was possible to make music with lighters!”

“Yeah, I think that was my favourite part, it was super cool,” exuded two audience members.

Then the show moved onto Jazz Band, performing their setlist featuring five groovy jazz pieces. They kicked it off with the striking Tiger of San Pedro by John LaBarbera, arranged by John Berry, and Topsy by Edgar Battle and Eddie Durham, arranged by John Berry. Continuing the vibe was Jumpin’ at the Woodside by Count Basie, arranged by Paul Cook, and then Sticks by Julian Adderley, arranged by Mike Kamuf, and finally, Paquito’s Revenge by Terry White. 

After their first performance at Pine Grove, everyone enjoyed a food break at Wendy’s and Tim Hortons. Taking this time to reflect on their playing, this coffee break served as wonderful bonding time for the bandmates before heading off to their next performance.

Additionally, between pieces, our fellow students showed off their musical talents through a demonstration of the unique and grand variety of instruments at Blakelock. “It was so exciting to see so many young students captivated by different instruments!” expressed Gloria Shi, who had showed off the beauty of the french horn. 

By the end of the day, everyone had an opportunity to jam and perform some fun pieces, make fond memories with each other, and share the wonders of Blakelock’s music program.