HMS Jazz Band

The HMS Jazz Band is an auditioned ensemble comprised of seventh and eighth graders. Though traditional big bands have limited instrumentation, (saxes, trombones, trumpets, rhythm section) all instruments are welcome in our ensemble. Students are introduced to the jazz idiom with beginning study in swing time, call and response, the 12-bar blues form and basic improvisation, with repertoire covering the full range of jazz styles from big band to fusion. Rehearsals are held on Tuesday evenings from 6-7pm in the HHS Band Room, and the band performs twice per year.

Regarding the auditions process:

• Auditions are held each June for the following year. Current sixth and seventh graders are allowed to audition, with no auditions being accepted in the fall.

• Students should prepare to play either a solo piece for their instrument, or a part from a recent band or orchestra concert, as well as sight read.

• Students are not required to be current members of the concert band or orchestra, but must be able to read notated sheet music comfortably.

• The jazz band requires a rhythm section, (drum set, piano, guitar, bass) but rarely calls for more than two players on a given instrument. In some cases, only one per player per rhythm instrument will be accepted.

Jazz auditions will be announced in band and orchestra classes and on the morning announcements each June.