On Monday, February 23, 20 members of the SVHS Jazz Band traveled to the University of Wyoming campus in Laramie to perform at the UW Jazz Festival. Accompanied by Band Director Kurt Sand and Assistant Lindsay Kallgren, students performed three jazz selections to be adjudicated by two university jazz professors, one from Colorado and one from Texas.
The festival provided students with the opportunity to perform in front of expert musicians and receive detailed feedback on tone, style, and overall performance. According to Mr. Sand, preparation for the event began just 3 months ago. “Jazz band began rehearsing for this event and their December home concert when the second trimester started in November,” he said. After lots of preparation and rehearsal, the SVHS Jazz Band earned an overall rating of Superior (1), the top score awarded at the festival.
Judges at the festival evaluate performances on several criteria. “Great Tone Quality, Excellent Intonation, Appropriate Style, Strong Improvisation skills, Solid Rhythm Section, Well-Balanced Sound, Appropriate literature for the age and experience of the group, as well as appearance, poise, and general conduct,” Sand explained.
While technical precision matters, jazz band offers something unique compared to traditional concert performances. Kallgren said jazz allows for more creativity and interaction between musicians. “Jazz band is different because it’s not just about playing the notes exactly as written,” she said. “Jazz includes improvisation. Musicians create music on the spot, which makes every performance unique.” She also emphasized the importance of teamwork. “Even though there are solos, no one plays alone. The rhythm section supports the soloist, the horns respond to each other, and everyone has to listen carefully to stay locked into the groove.”
For freshman Lucas Roniger, who plays baritone saxophone, performing at the festival was both nerve-wracking and exciting. “Performing at the Jazz Festival was a little scary, but it was pretty fun,” Roniger said. He added that one of his biggest surprises has been how enjoyable the experience is overall. “I’m surprised that jazz band trips are soooo fun.”
Senior trumpet player Eli Christiansen reflected on his three years in the jazz band and the responsibility that comes with leadership. “I have been in Jazz band for three years. My sophomore year until this year. I beat out a senior trumpet player for my spot during my sophomore year,” Christiansen said. As a senior, he focuses on setting a good example. “I work hard, stay busy, and commit myself to all that I am involved in.” Looking back, Christiansen believes the experience has taught him more than just musical skill. “Effort is what makes or breaks the year,” he said. “Consistency, Effort, and Attitude are all the factors that determine the good bands from the great.”
Beyond the performance itself, the trip also strengthened relationships within the group. Kallgren said traveling together creates meaningful moments outside of rehearsal. “Watching everyone grow closer and more confident as a group made the trip memorable.” The opportunity to perform at the festival also helps prepare the band for upcoming events later this spring. “Having a judged performance at this time of year sets us up really well as we prepare for our District Music Festival and Music in the Parks performances in April,” Sand said. Through preparation, teamwork, and dedication, the SVHS Jazz Band represented their school with pride, proving that effort, energy, and a little improvisation can go a long way
