The Hudson High School Jazz Ensembles consist of 3 traditional big bands with opportunity for small group (combo) experience.  Each ensemble experiences a varied repertoire of jazz styles from 1900 - today including swing, funk, be-bop, latin and rock.  All jazz ensembles require an audition at the beginning of each school year.  All musicians who are enrolled in a music department ensemble playing saxophone, trombone, trumpet, bass, drums, and vocals are eligible for membership. Any pianists or guitarists are eligible.

 

Jazz Ensemble I:  This premier performing group placing strong emphasis on advanced high school and collegiate repertoire requiring jazz improvisation from all selected musicians.  The musicians enjoy 12-15 performances per school year throughout Northeast Ohio and the Nation including invitational jazz festivals and special performances.  Jazz Ensemble I rehearses from the beginning of the school year through Memorial Day on Tuesday, Thursday (and Friday after marching season) from 3:10-4:30 p.m.

 

Jazz Ensemble II: This intermediate band performs intermediate literature to develop jazz style and jazz improvisation through the big band experience.  The musicians enjoy 8-10 performances per school year throughout Northeast Ohio and the Nation including invitational jazz festivals and special performances.  Jazz Ensemble II rehearses starting with the conclusion of marching band through Memorial Day on Tuesday and Thursday from 3:10-4:30 p.m.

 

Jazz Ensemble III (Jazz Lab): A training band for those musicians who wish to learn basic skills and technique on their instrument in the jazz style and large ensemble setting.  Jazz improvisation is learned in the ensemble for those who do not improvise before joining.  Athletes enjoy Jazz Lab due to the schedule conflict with Jazz I and Jazz II.  Jazz Lab performs 3-5 performances per year and rehearses on Wednesdays from 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

 

 

Jazz Ensemble II