Last spring our directors listened to nearly 100 student recordings of “There Is No Greater Love.” Students improvised over the chord changes and swung. The audition process resulted in four instrumental ensembles and one vocal jazz group. We are so fortunate to have Dr. Jean-Marie Kent and Scott Brown teach our day time classes, and Dr. Michael Van Bebber and Mark Taylor instruct our after school bands.
The global pandemic will not stop the music. Classes are virtual, and there’s a lot of learning to be done. Jazz Band II is starting with Cannonball Adderley’s “Stars Fell on Alabama,” working on inflections and vibrato.
We are working hard to engage our students in meaningful ways, and we hope you will stay connected.
We look forward to a better tomorrow, and can’t wait to see you.
Sarah Fulton
Virtual Vocal Jazz Concert – Monday, June 8th
Dr. Jean-Marie Kent and Roosevelt Vocal Jazz will perform in your living room on Monday, June 8th at 7:30 PM (PST). Here’s your invitation:
The Magnificent Roosevelt Vocal Jazz Solos Zoom Concert. Click here for your Zoom link.
Webinar ID Number 871 5064 8427 | International numbers available here.
Roosevelt Jazz Auditions
Audition information for the 2020-2021 Roosevelt Jazz Program is posted under the “Events” tab. If you plan to audition for Roosevelt Jazz, your online registration and video submission are due no later than 5 pm on May 29th! Thank you.
In the Shed.
As of March 12th, Seattle Public Schools are closed. Our annual Gala and Hot Java Cool Jazz have been canceled. Watch our Facebook and Website for updated information and stay safe and healthy out there. We look forward to playing for you soon.
Raise your Paddle for Roosevelt Jazz!
Congratulations to Scott Brown and The Roosevelt Jazz Band. For the 20th year, they are headed to New York, New York to participate in the 25th Annual Essentially Ellington Competition and Festival. Before they’re off, Michael Van Bebber and Jazz Band 2 will compete in the Next Generation Jazz Festival in Monterey, California. With such success comes a need for fundraising. Please, get your tickets to our Gala on Saturday, March 21st and support the band at Hot Java Cool Jazz on the 27th as well. Thank you!