Jazz band is a class offered in the second semester to students in grades 9-12. In this class students will learn the history and proper playing styles of different genres, composers, and groups in the different periods and types of jazz music. The different styles include ragtime, Dixieland, swing, pop, modern, and rock. Students play traditional jazz band instruments in this class and will learn the skill of improvisation. The jazz band has various afterschool performances throughout the semester. The only prerequisite to this class is students must be a member of the concert/marching band or pass an audition. 

A common question is "Can I play in jazz band if I do not play a traditional jazz instrument?" The answer to this is YES! Skills between most woodwinds transfer to each other and skills between most brass transfer between each other, we will have you learn a secondary instrument where skills from your primary will easily and quickly transfer. There are also times where non-traditional instruments are used in jazz and this is a great opportunity for people who play bass, guitar, or piano to use those skills in an ensemble setting.

Jazz Band Instrumentation

• Alto Saxophone

• Tenor Saxophone

• Baritone Saxophone

• Trumpet

• Trombone

• Bass Trombone

• Drum Set

• Electric Bass

• Electric Guitar

• Piano

Students who play flute or clarinet can easily switch to any of the saxophones. 

Students who play French horn can easily switch to trumpet.

Students who play baritone or tuba can easily switch to trombone.