Jazz Bands

Introduction

The Jazz Ensemble is an auditioned, ex-curricular group that meets after school during the spring semester. It typically performs two concerts, and may also do “run out gigs” such as performances at retirement homes, community events or school functions, and jazz festivals. The traditional instrumentation of the Jazz Ensemble calls for a set number of saxophones, trombones, trumpets, piano, drum set, electric guitar, bass guitar and auxiliary percussion. However, depending on student interest, all instruments may join the group in order to fill out instrumentation and balance. For example, clarinets may have the opportunity to play a tenor or baritone saxophone parts in jazz band if the players in concert bands do not participate in the ensemble.

Some years, a second group called the Jazz Orchestra is offered in the spring as a training group for the Jazz Ensemble. This group is open to any student at North Lincoln regardless of previous band experience and any instrumentation. The only prerequisite is the ability to read-music; however, students who do not know how to read music and willing to learn on their own are welcome to join this group! Depending on the year, the Jazz Orchestra will perform at the spring concert or become a “lab” band that focuses on improvisation and jazz style. More information is available in January.