News / Notes Updates

News 5/5/25

Hi, Folks -

Man, what a whirlwind!  We're all done!  Parents, again, I can't thank you enough for all of your kind words and your support for the program.  The EJM is a taste of what happens up at high school and also gives a perspective of what other programs are doing at the same level!  I hope your kids are motivated to continue their learning and to develop their musical study.

1. The Cherokee High School Jazz Ensemble placed 4th at Division 1 State Finals on Saturday.  We were .14 points from placing 3rd.  The band had a great and fun competitive season and is already eager to welcome our new personnel and get started for the 2025-2026 school year!

2. We will have one final performance at Cherokee featuring the 3 groups I run on May 29th.  We will play in the courtyard at Cherokee (outside) if the weather holds up and will move to the band room (if and only if) it rains or the weather isn't holding up.  The concert will begin at 6:00pm.  Concert dress can be shorts (if desired) and your EJM t-shirt!

3. For summer time, I am planning to open up my availability for 1 on 1 lessons.  Students who have an interest in learning more about music and/or developing on their instruments should consider being a part of it.  If this sounds like something you'd be into learning more about, feel free to reach out!  Lesson availability is tightening up already (thank you for your support and interest!) so if you wanna get involved, make sure you reach out ASAP!  I'm almost full here so if you're into it, reach out for available times.  If you're interested as well, Mike Lynch (who is the other band director at Cherokee) is also going to be giving lessons this summer as well.  Feel free to reach out to him via text/call 609-221-6320 or e-mail him at mlynch@lrhsd.org.

4. If you haven't paid your 75.00 EJM registration fee, please bring that with you to the 5/29 concert OR just venmo the band parents.  I'll reach out privately if we're still not showing records of payment.  (We use these monies to fund our program so please get that in!  

Peace,

ep

News 4/29/25

Hi, Folks -

Hard to believe our rehearsals have ended!  I'm so glad you participated in this group and hope it was a rewarding one for you and your kids!

1. Next competition is at Princeton High School on Saturday May 3rd!  That's the big one for us!  Arrival time at Princeton HS is 11:30am.  We warm up at 12:00pm, perform on stage at 12:20pm, and have a post-performance clinic at 12:40pm.  From 1:00 - 2:20pm we can eat, hang, and watch other middle school programs.  Awards will be at 2:40pm and, after awards, we will take a group photo.  After the photo, you're dismissed!

2. If you're interested, Cherokee's top band performs at State Finals up in Edison at Edison High School. .(Was going to be JP Stevens high school but their auditorium is being renovated and not ready for the show so it's moving just a little down the road to Edison High School.)  We play at 7:05pm.  IF you head up, you, and your kids, will get a taste of the next level of competition and what the high school groups work towards.  The last band on is the strongest high school program in the country, not just the state.  (And, yes, they are our competition...lol.).   They, alone, are worth the trip up to Edison High School.

3. We will have one final performance at Cherokee featuring the 3 groups I run on May 29th.  We will play in the courtyard at Cherokee (outside) if the weather holds up and will move to the band room (if and only if) it rains or the weather isn't holding up.  The concert will begin at 6:00pm.

4. For summer time, I am planning to open up my availability for 1 on 1 lessons.  Students who have an interest in learning more about music and/or developing on their instruments should consider being a part of it.  If this sounds like something you'd be into learning more about, feel free to reach out!  Lesson availability is tightening up already (thank you for your support and interest!) so if you wanna get involved, make sure you reach out ASAP!

5. If you're around tonight, our largest fundraiser of the year is at Indian Springs Country Club.  Our basket auction has over 70 baskets up for raffle as well as some SUPER baskets too!  A good night of baskets and music provided by the CHS Jazz Ensemble.  Hope to see some/all of you there if you're around!

That should do it for now!  Everyone be well and I'll talk to you soon!

Peace,

ep

News 4/13/25

Hi, Folks -

Great performance by the EJM on Friday night!  We were around the middle of the pack among all bands competing.  Scores were 79 and 76 for us.  We have 1 more competition this year for NJAJE Middle School State Finals!  For those of you doing this for the first time, we'll be competing against other Middle Schools from across the state.  This is going to be "picking on someone our own size...so to speak."  You'll get a kick out of how strong some of these programs are too.  For some news/notes:  

1. Monday's rehearsal is CANCELLED.  I will see you on Monday, 4/28.  4:45pm.

2. Next competition is at Princeton High School.  That's the big one for us!  Arrival time at Princeton HS is 11:30am.  We warm up at 12:00pm, perform on stage at 12:20pm, and have a post-performance clinic at 12:40pm.  From 1:00 - 2:20pm we can eat, hang, and watch other middle school programs.  Awards will be at 2:40pm and, after awards, we will take a group photo.  After the photo, you're dismissed!

3. If you're interested, Cherokee's top band performs at State Finals up in Edison.  We play at 7:05pm.  IF you head up, you, and your kids, will get a taste of the next level of competition and what the high school groups work towards.  The last band on is the strongest high school program in the country, not just the state.  (And, yes, they are our competition...lol.).   They, alone, are worth the trip up to JP Stevens High School.

4. We will have one final performance at Cherokee featuring the 3 groups I run in late May / Early June.  (It's either going to be 5/29 or 6/5....but I haven't booked that yet.). My plan is going to be to book 5/29 and use 6/5 as a rain date.  (Looking to do the concert outside in the evening.). Ice cream hang to follow.  I'll probably book a Mister Softee truck to come hang.  More info to follow.

5. For summer time, I am planning to open up my availability for 1 on 1 lessons.  Students who have an interest in learning more about music and/or developing on their instruments should consider being a part of it.  If this sounds like something you'd be into learning more about, feel free to reach out!

That should do it for now!  Everyone be well and I'll talk to you soon!

Peace,

ep

News 3/19/25

Hi, Folks -

Great performance by the EJM on Friday night!  Our total score was an 80.95.  The band was scored on the same scale as the high school bands we are up against which is cool!  We still have a VERY long way to go with their development but, more than anything, I hope they are having fun performing on stage and are getting interested in developing their musicianship even further!  Here's the updates here...

1. Next practice is this Monday, 3/24.  4:45 at Cherokee

2. Next competition is at Deptford High School on April 11th.  EJM is scheduled to perform at 5:30pm.  Plan on arriving at Deptford HS around 4:45pm.  (We are NOT the first band on, FYI)

3. That night, Cherokee's Jazz Ensemble performs at 8:00 if you're planning on hanging around....(Cherokee Jazz Band is NOT attending this festival.)  

4. For summer time, I am planning to open up my availability for 1 on 1 lessons.  Students who have an interest in learning more about music and/or developing on their instruments should consider being a part of it.  If this sounds like something you'd be into learning more about, feel free to reach out!

That should do it for now!  Everyone be well and I'll talk to you soon!

Peace,

ep

News 4/7/25

Hi, Folks -

Super excited to get the EJM back on the scene this Friday at Deptford High School!  Here's some news and notes to get ready.

1. EJM students should be dropped off at Deptford High School around 4:45pm.  (If you get there earlier, students should head to the cafeteria.  That's where we will be dropping off our equipment.  I'm riding the bus with Cherokee so I will be there ASAP.)

2. Our warm up time is 5:00pm and our stage performance time is 5:30pm.  

3. If you're interested and/or able to stay, there are bands out until 9:00pm and some really great ones too!  Awards are at 9:30pm and the EJM will be receiving awards.  If you're up for staying for the ceremony, the more the merrier!

4. On April 29th, our largest fundraiser hits over at Indian Springs and we would LOVE to have some EJM representation at our Spring Dinner Auction.  I will have ticket info posted on my "cherokee_jazz" instagram but, if you're around, the money raised goes right back into our jazz program to invest in things we need to function.  If you're around, please consider RSVP'ing a seat.  Students are welcome too (but they can't win any baskets.). :). The Cherokee Jazz Ensemble also performs at this event.  

Thank you so much and looking forward to seeing y'all today!

Peace,

ep

News 3/5/25

Hi, Folks -

First up, just a reminder that we are a go for rehearsal on Monday, 3/10!  Our final run through before the Shawnee Jazz Festival.  Speaking of the Shawnee Jazz Festival, here's the deets for that:

Here is the itinerary for the Shawnee Jazz competition on Friday, March 14th and some details.

https://lrhsd.schoolcashonline.com/Fee/Details/8040/236/False/True (Tickets can be purchased here or at the door)

1. Parents should have their students dropped off at Shawnee High School around 4:30pm.  I will meet you all there.  (I'm riding the bus with the Cherokee students.). The first parking lot is the best place to park.  (You'll probably see busses unloading there too....that's where you head in.).  Parents should head in through the main auditorium entrance.

2. When you're there, student volunteers from Shawnee will get you to the recital hall where your students will take their instruments out and leave their cases.  (Rhythm section equipment will be coming with my truck and will be there ASAP.)

3. Once students arrive, and unpack, they'll head to the warm up room.  (Shawnee students will help usher and escort them where they need to go.)

4. Evesham Jazz Machine Performance time is set for 5:15pm.  

5. Students should wear black pants, their EJM T-Shirt, and comfortable shoes.  (Sneakers are fine).  

6. After the performance, I hope you're able to hang for the remaining performances!  You are most welcome to hang with the Cherokee people and parents are welcome to leave students at Shawnee to go grab a bite if interested.  If not, all good.  Just know you're welcome to stay.  Cherokee Jazz Band goes on about 6:15 and Cherokee Jazz Ensemble goes on around 8:45pm.  Awards are at 9:35pm.

If I'm missing anything just reach out and ask!  

News 2/21/25

Hi, Folks -

Here is the itinerary for the Overbrook Jazz competition on Friday, February 28th and some details.

1. Parents should have their students dropped off at Overbrook High School between 3:45pm - 4:00pm.  I will meet you all there.  (I'm riding the bus with the Cherokee students.)

2. When you're there, student volunteers from Overbrook will get you to the cafeteria where your students will take their instruments out and leave their cases.  (Rhythm section equipment will be coming with my truck and will be there ASAP.)

3. The EJM warms up on stage so as soon as I'm there, I'll meet them on stage.  They are allowed to play and to get loose on stage but it might be best if they stay in the cafeteria until I'm there.  

4. Evesham Jazz Machine Performance time is set for 4:30pm.  

5. Students should wear black pants, their EJM T-Shirt, and comfortable shoes.  (Sneakers are fine).  

6. After the performance, we go to a clinic with Mike Cemprola who is the guest artist.  (Mike plays with the Airmen of Note and is a close friend of mine....he's great.  He will talk to the kids about their show and give them feedback.). 

7. After the clinic, the students will put their instruments back in their cases and proceed to either watch bands or eat if they want!  Food will be available for purchase.  The schedule for the rest of the night has a bunch of other high school bands closing with Overbrook at around 9:00.  There will be an awards ceremony (Where the EJM will be recognized) to close the night around 9:45pm.  You are all welcome to stay but I also get it that it's a long night.  Parents are ok to leave kids and go grab a bite to eat if you'd like too.  Just make sure you're back in time to grab your kids if you decide to.  Give me a heads up too if that's the case just so I know.  The more kids that hang and participate in the awards the better.  (No pressure though!)

If I'm missing anything just reach out and ask!  I know the DeMasi musical students have their show that night so best wishes to them!  

I also left the Seneca itinerary up here for Thursday of next week too!  Looking forward to starting off our competition season with the EJM!!!!!

PEACE,

ep

Here's the UPDATED deets for our FIRST competition on 2/27/25 at Seneca HS.

Arrive at Seneca HS - 4:45pm.  (Students involved in the DeMasi Musical rehearsal please just get there ASAP.)

• Students should be wearing their EJM t-shirt (I have an order for more small and medium shirts coming too so if sizes are off, they are on their way.). 

• For this competition, students are allowed to wear jeans / casual pants.  Sneakers, also, are cool for this event.  100% casual.  (My jazz groups at Cherokee will also be wearing casual jeans and either an EJM or CHS Jazz shirt.

Warm Up Room - 5:00pm - 5:30pm (Students will be with my Cherokee students who help me run rehearsal)

Stage Performance - 5:35 - 5:50pm.

After stage performance, hang for a picture with EVERYONE!  Please hang for that moment if possible!

Food/drink will be available for purchase if you're able to hang and support the show!  

There are other bands competing too, closing with the host band Seneca, at 8:30pm.  Awards are at 8:50pm.  The EJM will be recognized at awards too!  If you're able to stay, please do!  You can hang with the Cherokee kids/parents too!  If not, completely understand.

All students must be transported to and from by parents.  No bus is provided.

News 2/11/25

Hi, Folks -

Here's the UPDATED deets for our FIRST competition on 2/27/25 at Seneca HS.

Arrive at Seneca HS - 4:45pm.  (Students involved in the DeMasi Musical rehearsal please just get there ASAP.)

• Students should be wearing their EJM t-shirt (I have an order for more small and medium shirts coming too so if sizes are off, they are on their way.). 

• For this competition, students are allowed to wear jeans / casual pants.  Sneakers, also, are cool for this event.  100% casual.  (My jazz groups at Cherokee will also be wearing casual jeans and either an EJM or CHS Jazz shirt.

Warm Up Room - 5:00pm - 5:30pm (Students will be with my Cherokee students who help me run rehearsal)

Stage Performance - 5:35 - 5:50pm.

After stage performance, hang for a picture with EVERYONE!  Please hang for that moment if possible!

Food/drink will be available for purchase if you're able to hang and support the show!  

There are other bands competing too, closing with the host band Seneca, at 8:30pm.  Awards are at 8:50pm.  The EJM will be recognized at awards too!  If you're able to stay, please do!  You can hang with the Cherokee kids/parents too!  If not, completely understand.

All students must be transported to and from by parents.  No bus is provided.

News 2/5/25

Hi, Folks -

Here's the deets for our FIRST competition on 2/27/25 at Seneca HS.

Arrive at Seneca HS - 4:15pm

• Students should be wearing their EJM t-shirt (I have an order for more small and medium shirts coming too so if sizes are off, they are on their way.). 

• For this competition, students are allowed to wear jeans / casual pants.  Sneakers, also, are cool for this event.  100% casual.  (My jazz groups at Cherokee will also be wearing casual jeans and either an EJM or CHS Jazz shirt.

Warm Up Room - 4:30pm - 4:50pm

Stage Performance - 4:50pm - 5:10pm

After stage performance, hang for Cherokee Jazz Band AND Cherokee Jazz Ensemble performing right after EJM!

At the end of the CHSJE performance, I want a picture with EVERYONE.  Please hang for that moment if possible!

Food/drink will be available for purchase if you're able to hang and support the show!  

There are other bands competing too, closing with the host band Seneca, at 8:30pm.  Awards are at 8:50pm.  The EJM will be recognized at awards too!  If you're able to stay, please do!  You can hang with the Cherokee kids/parents too!  If not, completely understand.

All students must be transported to and from by parents.  No bus is provided.

News 1/27/2025 - 

Hi, Folks -

1. Here's our current roster for the 2025 version of the Evesham Jazz Machine.  If I'm either misspelling and/or missing anyone, please don't hesitate to reach out to correct me!  (Last call for spellings....I'm going to start to make our program for competitions.). 

Flute - Leah Frangella, Ellie Huang, Cameron Kittles

Clarinet - Elaine Eckhart

Saxophones - Nikita Gogineni, Preston Lightfoot, Dylan Coffina, Jacob Peelman, Jason Zemaitatis, Georgia Wellborn, Teddy Carmody, Vihaan Khare

Trumpet - Matt Cosper, Anthony Hughes, Mason Pyon, Johnny Gonzalez, Hailey Schmid

Trombone - Sam Hasan, Christian Petragnani, Ethan Hunter

Piano - Ashvik Gupta, Graham Campbell

Bass - Jackson Hunter

Drum Set - Casey Leisse, Aarav Saxena

2. If you either didn't receive a part and/or need to print one, you can find the parts at this link....

https://sites.google.com/lrhsd.org/cherokeejazz/evesham-jazz-machine/2025-ejm-sheet-music

Please make sure you have your music printed.  (No reading off of a tablet/chromebook, please!)

3. You will be receiving a welcome letter from the band parents very soon!  Be on the lookout for deets there.

4. Our next rehearsal is February 3rd at 4:45pm.  Our first competition is one month from today!  February 27th at Seneca HS.  Stage performance is set for 5:40 pm so we'll make 5:00pm the call time to get the kids to Seneca.  Students should wear black pants and their Evesham Jazz Machine T-Shirt.  (If you haven't received your shirt yet, let Mr. Phillips know!

5. If schools are closed for weather or whatever we will NOT have rehearsal.  (I'll do my best to communicate to reinforce the day of but if schools are closed, we are too, FYI.

Peace,

ep

News 1/16/2025 - 

Hi, Folks -

1. Here's our current roster for the 2025 version of the Evesham Jazz Machine.  If I'm either misspelling and/or missing anyone, please don't hesitate to reach out to correct me!

Flute - Leah Frangella, Ellie Huang, Cameron Kittles

Clarinet - Elaine Eckhart

Saxophones - Nikita Gogineni, Preston Lightfoot, Dylan Coffina, Jacob Peelman, Jason Zemaitatis, Georgia Wellborn, Teddy Carmody, Vihaan Khare

Trumpet - Matt Cosper, Anthony Hughes, Mason Pyon, Johnny Gonzalez, Hailey Schmid

Trombone - Sam Hasan, Christian Petragnani, Ethan Hunter

Piano - Ashvik Gupta, Graham Campbell

Bass - Jackson Hunter

Drum Set - Casey Leisse, Aarav Saxena

2. If you either didn't receive a part and/or need to print one, you can find the parts at this link....

https://sites.google.com/lrhsd.org/cherokeejazz/evesham-jazz-machine/2025-ejm-sheet-music

Please make sure you have your music printed.  (No reading off of a tablet/chromebook, please!)

3. You will be receiving a welcome letter from the band parents very soon!  Be on the lookout for deets there.

4. Our next rehearsal is January 27th at 4:45pm.  NO REHEARSAL THIS MONDAY (Schools closed for MLK.)

5. If schools are closed for weather or whatever we will NOT have rehearsal.  (I'll do my best to communicate to reinforce the day of but if schools are closed, we are too, FYI.

6. If you may know of anyone still interested in being a part of EJM, it's not too late!  Have them reach out to me ASAP!

Peace,

ep

News 12/29/2024 - 

Hi, Folks -

1. Here's our current roster for the 2025 version of the Evesham Jazz Machine.  If I'm either misspelling and/or missing anyone, please don't hesitate to reach out to correct me!

Flute - Leah Frangella, Ashvik Gupta, Ellie Huang, Cameron Kittles

Clarinet - Elaine Eckhart

Saxophones - Nikita Gogineni, Preston Lightfoot, Dylan Coffina, Jacob Peelman, Jason Zematitis, Georgia Wellborn, Teddy Carmody, Vihaan Khare

Trumpet - Matt Cosper, Anthony Hughes, Mason Pyon, Johnny Gonzalez, Katherine Schmid

Trombone - Sam Hasan, Christian Petragnani, Ethan Hunter

Piano - Ashvik Gupta, Graham Campbell

Bass - Jackson Hunter

Drum Set - Casey Leisse, Aarav Saxena

2. Our first rehearsal is on Monday, 1/6/25.  We start at 4:45pm and end right around 5:45pm.  Parents/Guardians are welcome to drop their students off at the side entrance of the school and pick up after rehearsal or feel free to sit in and listen as well.  (Most drop and do their own thing...I have 3 kids...I get it...we all have stuff to do!). If you are looking at the Cherokee North Main Entrance from your car, there is a side parking lot to the far right.  Head to that lot and you'll see a red door marked "54".  There is a set of gray double doors to enter the school next to that door.  That's where you'll enter from.  (Or, simply, follow the crowd!).   I'll have my helpers out there to greet you and get everyone where they should be.  

3. For the first rehearsal, all your students need is their instrument and a positive attitude!  The rest, I have under control.  If your student plays a large or non-transportable instrument, they are welcome to use my equipment at Cherokee.....just give me a heads up if you need to borrow something.  (All rhythm section instruments (electronics/amps/drums, etc.) can be borrowed for every rehearsal and performance.)

I think that's about it as of now.  Thanks for everything and I hope the holiday season treated everyone well.  I've never gained weight so quickly!  lol....oh man.  

Peace,

ep

News 5/18/2024 - 

Hi, Folks -

Hope everyone is doing ok during this final push to the end of the school year.  A few notes for you!

1. Anyone who hasn't paid for your EJM season, please make sure you turn that in.  75.00 made out to the Cherokee Band Boosters.

2. I'm conducting Bye Bye Birdie at Cherokee this, and next, weekend.  If any EJM students want to sit in the pit to watch what it's like, and to hear some KILLER players, just reach out.  There's still room left.  

3. If you're intested in my summer program, registration is open.  You can sign up here and get all details you might need!  https://earlphillipsmusic.com/summer-music-program.  Along with this too, if you're digging the EJM, please consider spreading the word about this.  I really want your kids to be involved in music and I wanna work with them.  The earlier they get after it, the crazier they'll be for it when they leave.  What we do matters and it changes kids' lives.  Get the word out.  Any and all are welcome!

4. June 6th, the EJM will be performing at Cherokee.  We will start at 6:30 PM and we'll be playing in the courtyard at Cherokee (outside if nice) and if rain, in the band room.  My 2 groups at Cherokee will also be performing and we'll be collaborating with the Art Honor Society Induction too, I believe.  

5. Registration, at the moment, isn't strong enough to run a full EJM over the summer.  If things stay that way, I'm going to run 1 on 1 private lessons.  For those, I charge $1 per minute and you book as much time as you'd like.  If you're interested in that, cool....if not, all good and completely understand.  If you would like more info on that, please reach out to my personal e-mail (earl@earlphillipsmusic.com) or reach out on my business socials.

6. Any questions, just holler!

Peace,

ep

News 4/11/2024 - 

Hi, Folks -

We're 16 days out for our 1st ever Middle School State Jazz Festival!  It's crazy that we've come this far and we only meet 1 time a week for 45 minutes.  I hope your kids are enjoying the experience.  A few news/notes items for you!

1. For incoming 8th graders interested in being a part of the jazz program at Cherokee, auditions are due tomorrow.  Any questions, just reach out!  

2. 4/27 we are at Princeton High School and you should plan to get there at 11:30 am.  Our stage time is set for 2:20.  Awards to follow our performance...not to mention working with the UNBELIEVEABLE Freddie Hendrix...(trumpet.). 

3. 4/29 I'm planning to have ice cream and a hang where we listen to the recordings we get from the festival.  Just celebrate the time we had together.  

4. If you're intested in my summer program, registration is open.  You can sign up here and get all details you might need!  https://earlphillipsmusic.com/summer-music-program.  Along with this too, if you're digging the EJM, please consider spreading the word about this.  I really want your kids to be involved in music and I wanna work with them.  The earlier they get after it, the crazier they'll be for it when they leave.  What we do matters and it changes kids' lives.  Get the word out.  Any and all are welcome!

5. Cherokee is heading to Edison High School that night for the High School State Finals.  (We're currently in 2nd place and this is the big one we shoot for.).   If you're not doing anything that night, come up and root us on.  These are the best bands in the state and would give you great insight as to what we work for throughout the year!

6. Rehearsal 4/15 is set for 4:45.  Rehearsal 4/22, if you're free earlier, you should come over and watch.  I'm hosting 3 of the high schools we're competing against and we're going to play for each other and/or work on sight reading together.  Not mandatory but know you're welcome to come over and hang if you're free just to watch it!

7. Any questions, just holler!

Peace,

ep

News 3/30/2024 - 

Hi, Folks -

Just got the deets for 4/27!  The EJM is scheduled to perform at 2:20.  We warm up around 2:00 and then we'll have a clinic with the, AMAZING, Freddie Hendrix (Trumpet) after our performance.  Awards will follow our performance and clinic!  This is super exciting!  I'm sure you haven't heard of Freddie Hendrix but, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=47SYf7HzWUs will introduce him.  This is one of my FAVORITE solos for big band.  (Freddie plays trumpet here with the Christian McBride band.  THIS is the guy that's going to work with us!

All students will report to Princeton High School at 11:30am.  We will sit together and watch some of the other Middle School groups together, eat lunch together, and then head into warm up and get to business!

Any questions, just holler!

Peace,

ep

News 3/28/2024 - 

Hi, Folks -

Congrats to all DMS students on, what I heard, was a great concert this week!  Here are a few notes EJM related for you all!

1. If you haven't paid your 75.00, please head to the "merch" page to Venmo the boosters or just bring your check in, Made out to the Cherokee Band Boosters, for the ensemble.  I'll reach out to those we have as outstanding.

2. We are NOT going to the Deptford Jazz Festival on 4/19.  Please remove that from your books!

3. We have rehearsals on 4/8, 4/15 and 4/22.  (Note, there's no rehearsal on 4/1 over Spring Break.). All rehearsals are starting at 4:45 and will continue to be at Cherokee.  If you're able to, and want to, please come early to the rehearsal on 4/22.  I'm hosting a few high schools at 3:00 and we're all rehearsing together to get ready for State Finals so, if you're around, come hang out and see what it's like.  These are KILLER high school groups too.  You'll really like it.

4. Our FINAL competition is on Saturday, April 27th at Noon.  We head up to Princeton High School and compete for the Middle School State Jazz Band Championship!!!  This is the first time we've ever done this and I absolutely can't wait to go with you!  Our rehearsals leading up will be spent cleaning up the material we have so that we show well there.  I don't know exact times yet but block off 12:00 - 4:00.  (There is no bus for this either...you must make your own way there.)  Once the schedule is official, I'll let you know!

5. That same day are the High School Jazz Band state finals...which is our big competition in our season.  If you want to come up a little further north and root us on (and see some of the amazing groups you'll be up against when you're in high school, we're at Edison High School.  That competition goes late but the high schoolers will tell you about how cool of a night that is.  If you have any questions on that, please don't hesitate to reach out.

6. Please keep me in the loop if you're either missing rehearsal or if there's drama with anything.  I have very little patience for no call no shows...I understand that stuff comes up...just please keep me in the loop.

7. I'll be releasing my Summer Music Program information shortly.  It'll be open to elementary, middle, and high school students.  Would love you to consider sending so your students can continue to develop their music education in a fun and motivating enviornment.  

I think that about covers it!  Any drama, do holler and let me know!

Peace,

ep

News 3/21/2024 - 

Hi, Folks -

How about us getting a GOLD rating at the Shawnee Jazz Festival!?!?!  I'm telling you...I'm SO pumped!  I hope the kids are too....I know I'm pretty beat up but when I get to rehearse and hang with them it all gets better.  I was at the All South Jersey Jazz Auditions this past Monday and wasn't able to be at rehearsal but Mr. Aucello, Orchestra and Marching Band Director, was there in my place and was raving about the crew.  Here's a few things to keep on the radar..... 

1. If you haven't paid your 75.00, please head to the "merch" page to Venmo the boosters or just bring your check in, Made out to the Cherokee Band Boosters, for the ensemble.  

2. We have rehearsals on 3/25, 4/8, 4/15 and 4/22.  (Note, there's no rehearsal on 4/1 over Spring Break.). All rehearsals are starting at 4:45 and will continue to be at Cherokee.  If you're able to, and want to, please come early to the rehearsal on 4/22.  I'm hosting a few high schools at 3:00 and we're all rehearsing together to get ready for State Finals so, if you're around, come hang out and see what it's like.  These are KILLER high school groups too.  You'll really like it.

3. Our FINAL competition is on Saturday, April 27th at Noon.  We head up to Princeton High School and compete for the Middle School State Jazz Band Championship!!!  This is the first time we've ever done this and I absolutely can't wait to go with you!  Our rehearsals leading up will be spent cleaning up the material we have so that we show well there.  I don't know exact times yet but block off 12:00 - 4:00.  (There is no bus for this either...you must make your own way there.)  Once the schedule is official, I'll let you know!

4. That same day are the High School Jazz Band state finals...which is our big competition in our season.  If you want to come up a little further north and root us on (and see some of the amazing groups you'll be up against when you're in high school, we're at Edison High School.  That competition goes late but the high schoolers will tell you about how cool of a night that is.  If you have any questions on that, please don't hesitate to reach out.

5. Please keep me in the loop if you're either missing rehearsal or if there's drama with anything.  I have very little patience for no call no shows...I understand that stuff comes up...just please keep me in the loop.

6. Would love to keep this EJM thing going and do more with the group.  There's SO much stuff we could be working on musically too...Would you be interested in keeping this going over the summer and hanging out longer?  I'm talking about working with the kids on music theory, sight reading work, ear training, and maybe small group / jazz improvisation stuff.  Let me know...honesty is the best thing too...so if you're not intersted, all good!  Just looking to see if there's interest out there in EJM land.  Thinking during the weeks (Monday - Thursday ish) for some 2-hour window between ballpark 4:30 and 8:30pm.  Shoot me a remind message back on a scale of 1-5 (1 not interested and 5 very interested.).  Just looking to see if there is interest before I go through putting the ideas together. 

7. Merch!  Don't forget to buy shirts!  :). We have been taking over with the branding at these 2 shows and I absolutely LOVE it.  

I think that about covers it!  Any drama, do holler and let me know!

Peace,

ep

News 3/11/2024 - 

Hi, Folks - 

What a week over here at Cherokee...looking forward to getting the squad back together for this big EJM week!

1. Rehearsal today at 4:45pm.  We will be watching our set from the Seneca show as a band (Thanks to all of you who shared videos!) and rehearsing our set for this Friday night's performance.

2. The EJM performace is scheduled for 5:00 on Friday night, 3/15.  Students should be at Shawnee High School by about 4:15 - 4:30pm.  Dress code will be exactly the same as the Seneca show (Black pants, EJM t-shirt).  We will be warming up around that time and we'll take the stage right around 5:00pm.  (Cherokee Jazz Band AND Cherokee Jazz Ensemble to follow the EJM back to back.)

3. If anyone wants to support the EJM with the purchase of a t-shirt, you can do that on the "merch" page here or just send cash in.  I'd love nothing more that to see a sea of EJM gear out there!  

4. There will be food there for purchase.

5. Please use the link I sent on Remind to purchase your tickets.  

6. If you haven't paid your 75.00, please head to the "merch" page to Venmo the boosters or just bring your check in, Made out to the Cherokee Band Boosters, for the ensemble.  

I think that about covers it!  Any drama, do holler and let me know!

Peace,

ep

News 2/29/2024 - 

Hi, Folks - 

So excited to get the EJM out there playing today!  Here's some details for y'all - 

1. We perform at 5:45pm.  When you get there, there will be plenty of people from Seneca to tell you where to go.  Cherokee, and EJM, will be on stage performing from 5:20 - 6:20 with all the groups I have....2 Cherokee groups and the EJM.  Hope you can stay and make it for all of them but do what y'all need to do.  

2. Tonight's show has no entry fee but they do donations at the door with a suggested donation of 10.00 for admission.  You can donate whatever you'd like....even if that's $0.00.  

3. There will be plenty of food for sale at the gig!

4. If any parents see all that Cherokee Jazz and Evesham Jazz merch on display, and feel like they need some, I'm bringing shirts for sale!  You can venmo the boosters or bring cash....but venmo is TOTALLY preferred so I don't have to worry about that stuff.  Let's do 10.00 for the EJM t-shirt and 15 for the Cherokee Long Sleeve T.  (+3.00 for 2xl on both.)

5. Take a TON of pics and video and be sure to share!  I'm so excited about having this group and want this to be an annual thing that our kids look forward to.  Remember, we're rehearsing for Middle School State Finals at the end of April!!!!  Any questions, shoot me an e-mail!

Peace!

News 2/27/2024 - 

Hi, Folks - 

A few things for the good of the order:

1. Payment for the EJM can be sent via check or Venmo to the Cherokee High School Band Boosters.  Checks can be brought into rehearsal or, if Venmo, please click on the "Merch" page above for the QR code for the boosters.

2. Our first show is 2/29, Thursday, at Seneca High School.  Parents, your students should be at Seneca by 5:00pm.  (For those coming from DeMasi's musical rehearsal, I know you're out at 4:45 (I spoke with the director) and you'll just head to Seneca after you're out...you might get there around 5:15 or 5:20.  Uniform is all black pants, your Evesham Jazz Machine T-shirt, and all black shoes.  

3. We will perform at 5:45 pm.  The Cherokee Jazz Band will perform at 5:20pm, EJM at 5:45, and then the Cherokee Jazz Ensemble at 6:05.  These performances will all be held in the Seneca Auditorium.  

4. If you'd like to support the Evesham Jazz Machine, and the Cherokee Jazz program, please consider purchasing a t-shirt from the merch page as well!  (Sizes range from XS - 2XL.). I'd love nothing more than to brand that show with a ton of EJM support.  

5. The competition is done at 8:00pm and the students are welcome to stay and watch the other bands there that night.  It would be KILLER for them to stay and see what they could be getting into when they get to Cherokee but I also understand school nights and late nights during the week.  Just know your kids, and you, are all welcome!  I also heard there is a board of ed performance for some of the students!  Busy time of year for sure!  Only thing I really want, if at all possible, is a big group picture of all the bands together after the Cherokee Jazz Ensemble plays.  Thanks, everyone!  Any drama, just holler!

News 2/23/2024 - 

Hi, Folks - 

A few things for the good of the order:

1. Payment for the EJM can be sent via check or Venmo to the Cherokee High School Band Boosters.  Checks can be brought into rehearsal or, if Venmo, please click on the "Merch" page above for the QR code for the boosters.

2. Rehearsal 2/26 is on for 4:45pm.  I look forward to seeing you there!  Students involved with the DeMasi musical that week should go to the DeMasi rehearsal.  (All good....be there and do your best!)

3. Our first show is 2/29, Thursday, at Seneca High School.  Parents, your students should be at Seneca by 5:00pm.  (For those coming from DeMasi's musical rehearsal, I know you're out at 4:45 (I spoke with the director) and you'll just head to Seneca after you're out...you might get there around 5:15 or 5:20.  Uniform is all black pants, your Evesham Jazz Machine T-shirt, and all black shoes.  

4. We will perform at 5:45 pm.  The Cherokee Jazz Band will perform at 5:20pm, EJM at 5:45, and then the Cherokee Jazz Ensemble at 6:05.  These performances will all be held in the Seneca Auditorium.  

5. If you'd like to support the Evesham Jazz Machine, and the Cherokee Jazz program, please consider purchasing a t-shirt from the merch page as well!  (Sizes range from XS - 2XL.). I'd love nothing more than to brand that show with a ton of EJM support.  

6. The competition is done at 8:00pm and the students are welcome to stay and watch the other bands there that night.  It would be KILLER for them to stay and see what they could be getting into when they get to Cherokee but I also understand school nights and late nights during the week.  Just know your kids, and you, are all welcome!  I also heard there is a board of ed performance for some of the students!  Busy time of year for sure!  Only thing I really want, if at all possible, is a big group picture of all the bands together after the Cherokee Jazz Ensemble plays.  Thanks, everyone!  Any drama, just holler!

News 2/13/2024 - 

Hi, Folks - 

A few things for the good of the order:

1. Payment for the EJM can be sent via check or Venmo to the Cherokee High School Band Boosters.  Checks can be brought into rehearsal or, if Venmo, please click on the "Merch" page above for the QR code for the boosters.

2. There is NO rehearsal on 2/19 (next week) as we observe President's Day Weekend.

3. Rehearsal 2/26 is on for 4:45pm.  I look forward to seeing you there!  Students involved with the DeMasi musical that week should go to the DeMasi rehearsal.  (All good....be there and do your best!)

4. Our first show is 2/29, Thursday, at Seneca High School.  Parents, your students should be at Seneca by 5:00pm.  (For those coming from DeMasi's musical rehearsal, I know you're out at 4:45 (I spoke with the director) and you'll just head to Seneca after you're out...you might get there around 5:15 or 5:20.  Uniform is all black pants, your Evesham Jazz Machine T-shirt, and all black shoes.  

5. We will perform at 5:45 pm.  The Cherokee Jazz Band will perform at 5:20pm, EJM at 5:45, and then the Cherokee Jazz Ensemble at 6:05.  These performances will all be held in the Seneca Auditorium.  

6. If you'd like to support the Evesham Jazz Machine, and the Cherokee Jazz program, please consider purchasing a t-shirt from the merch page as well!  (Sizes range from XS - 2XL.). I'd love nothing more than to brand that show with a ton of EJM support.  

7. The competition is done at 8:00pm and the students are welcome to stay and watch the other bands there that night.  It would be KILLER for them to stay and see what they could be getting into when they get to Cherokee but I also understand school nights and late nights during the week.  Just know your kids, and you, are all welcome!