Schools
Liberty High School Musicians Jazzed About Upcoming Competition in New Orleans
The Liberty High School Honors Jazz Ensemble is raising money to participate in the Choice Jazz Competition in New Orleans April 10-14.
Students from the Liberty High School Honors Jazz Ensemble are making plans to travel to New Orleans this April where they will participate in the Choice Jazz Competition.
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Directed by Brandi Jason, the LHS Jazz Band is one of very few in Carroll County. While they have traveled to other places with the rest of the orchestra, this is the first time the 25 students will be travelling as a jazz ensemble alone, as well as their first time competing.
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The students will be staying in New Orleans April 10-14. On Saturday, April 13, the students will perform and receive written critiques from three musically renowned judges.
The students are then invited to attend a private 1-hour master class with those musicians. Later that evening, the students will attend an awards ceremony where there will be participation prizes as well as top and grand prize winners announced.
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During the trip, the students are scheduled to participate in several historical tours of the city and bayou. Also, coinciding with the competition, The French Quarter Jazz Festival will be in full swing while the students are visiting New Orleans.
With this festival, the city comes alive with jazz musicians of all styles. This festival will give the students a unique opportunity to hear jazz musicians from around the world.
“The students will be immersed in the rich heritage, culture of the city and of all forms of jazz music throughout the entire trip.” Jason said.
The estimated cost for the trip is more than $35,000, a cost funded by the individual students participating.
In order to offset some of the expense, the band is hosting several fundraisers, including a Re-Gift Extravaganza taking place Saturday, March 9 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. in the school cafeteria. During this fundraiser, new items will be on sale for half-price or less.
Beyond fundraisers, the Jazz Ensemble appreciates donations from any local businesses or music lovers who may want to contribute to their cause.
For information about how to become a trip sponsor click here.