Washington Middle School collects jazz fest awards

Fifteen Washington Middle School band students traveled to Clear Creek-Amana High School on Saturday, March 5, to perform at the SEIBA District Jazz Festival. Although the middle school/junior high division was a non-competitive clinic format, the judges still gave out awards to students for excellence in soloing during their performances, as well as an Outstanding Soloist of the Day award.

Washington's eighth grade drummer, Iris Dahl, earned the award for the Outstanding Soloist of the Day for all performers in his division. Also receiving excellence in soloing awards were: Angeline Anderson (alto saxophone and piano,) Maya Bruty (flute,) and Iris Dahl (drums.)

The Washington Middle School Jazz Band's set included: Drummin' Man arr. by Rich DeRosa (soloists: Iris Dahl, drums; Jaedyn Moore, trumpet; Angeline Anderson, Alto Sax; Kendall Conway, trumpet, and Aiden Rogers, trombone), Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star arr. by Rich DeRosa (featured soloist: Angenline Anderson, Piano) and Chameleon arr. by Victor Lopez (featuring everyone in the jazz band soloing)

Director, Craig McClenahan, said the group's performance was inspiring.

“This is truly an amazing group of young jazz musicians,” he said. “I really challenged them with some difficult arrangements I have never put in front of a middle school jazz band before. They are great kids who support each other while having a great time playing and at this age that doesn't always happen. Fourteen players playing solos on the last tune (is) almost unheard of, but they rose to the challenge and I'm so proud of them.”

The jazz band finished out their jazz season with a performance at the All-School Jazz Concert, Tuesday, March 8 at the Washington High School.

Comments: Kalen.McCain@southeastiowaunion.com