OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. – Jazz band students with the Osceola County School for the Arts are returning to the Big Apple, hoping to win first place for the third time in Jazz at Lincoln Center Essentially Ellington High School Jazz Band Competition & Festival.
Jason Anderson is the Director of Jazz Studies at the school. He said it’s an immense honor to be leading such a talented group of students.
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“For many years I marveled at some of the most decorated programs in the country like Dillard High School in Ft. Lauderdale and what they accomplished,” said Anderson. “It’s surreal to see my program receiving some of those same honors now. I’m just so thankful to be here and to be making a difference in the lives of these kids.”
More than 100 schools across the country submitted to be a part of the program, where students spend three days in workshops, jam sessions, rehearsals, and performances.
The competition itself highlights the top 15 high school jazz bands in the country.
Before students make their way to the big competition, they get a little help from professional musicians.
Last week, one of New York City’s most in-demand trumpet players, Tatum Greenblatt, visited students at Osceola County School for the Arts for a workshop.
“It’s hard to put into words the gratitude I feel to have the opportunity to do these workshops with the students,” said Greenblatt. “When I was in high school, I got to take part in this festival and it had a profound impact on my life. I have the utmost respect and admiration for these programs, and I take very seriously the position I have as a visiting clinician. It’s a true honor to get to do this work.”
Anderson said Greenblatt’s workshop has helped them to have a more polished, cohesive sound.
“Tatum was fantastic at getting the kids to look at the ‘big picture’ of each song. They loved his attention to detail within each piece, but were really blown away by how those minute details fit together to create an even more beautiful overall sound,” Anderson said.
Greenblatt performs frequently with The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra. He’s also been a member of the Grammy-Award-winning Mingus Big Band for over fifteen years, performed and/or recorded with Blood Sweat & Tears, Dr. John, Macklemore, and many others.
Greenblatt’s resume doesn’t stop there. He’s active on Broadway and has played in more than 20 productions.
He said he’s impressed with the students from Osceola County School for the Arts.
“This band is playing at a level comparable to professional groups. What strikes me beyond that is the tremendous sense of excitement that comes across in their music. The energy they create communicates a great joy that is infectious in all the best ways.”
Anderson said that’s what makes this jazz band unique.
“Beyond the fact that these kids work hard and really study this music, they are kind and they enjoy being around each other. Every time we take the stage, it’s my goal to make sure they play with that same spirit of joy and humility. I think in the end, playing with that feeling is what makes it so enjoyable for them and for those listening to them. They represent their school and their community very well.”
Greenblatt said he’s excited for students to take part in the festival, because of the sense of community it creates.
“These young musicians, who have been so dedicated and committed to this music for so long, get to meet scores of other like-minded students from all over the country. They will play together in jam sessions, take part in clinics, eat meals together, and develop friendships that will last a lifetime,” Greenblatt explained.
The competition takes place May 9 - 11 in New York City at Jazz at Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts.
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