The jazz program at MHS is co-curricular and acceptance is by audition each year. Students must be enrolled in the music department’s curricular ensembles to be eligible to audition. The program reflects traditional big band instrumentation (saxophone, trumpet, trombone, and rhythm section), with opportunities for small combos within the parameters of the program. Students will explore the various styles found within the idiom through performance of quality jazz literature and arrangements. Past guest artists include Tim Reis of the Rolling Stones, James Walker, Andy Fusco, Fred Maxwell, Christian Jaudes, Darrell Hendricks and Dr. Jeffrey Kunkel. Our professional jazz concert series has included performances by jazz greats Maynard Ferguson, The DIVA Jazz Orchestra, and The Mingus Big Band.
