Jazz Ensembles

The WJHS Jazz Ensembles are an extra-curricular enrichment for students in band and orchestra. The Jazz ensembles rehearse afterschool on Tuesdays. Additional rehearsals may also be outside of school hours at the director’s discretion. A variety of styles of music are included in the jazz curriculum. The study of improvisation is an important component to the jazz class.

The WJHS Jazz Ensembles perform at both school concerts and off campus venues. It is the responsibility of the students to know the performance calendar and attend all required performances.

The Jazz Ensembles are open to all 7^th & 8^th grade wind students that have prior D39 band experience and bass players who have prior D39 orchestra experience. Current enrollment in band or orchestra is required for participation in the jazz ensembles. Placement auditions may be required for winds.

Rhythm section players (guitar, piano, bass, percussion) interested in auditioning need to be taking private lessons, need to be able to read music (not tablature), and will be chosen at the discretion of the directors. Percussionists need to be taking private lessons with a teacher using a comprehensive percussion approach.

Students wishing to participate in the Jazz Ensembles should contact Ms. Dufek or Mr. Blomarz. Auditions take place in the fall.