Playing in a jazz ensemble differs significantly from being in an orchestra or concert band. Rather than being one of many players, you are part of a more intimate group of musicians who are very visible to the audience. One small section is often featured, or students have solos that take courage and confidence.
On Sunday, I had the pleasure of attending the SteelStacks High School Jazz Band Showcase in Bethlehem, PA. My husband and I went specifically to watch our son direct the North Penn Columbia Jazz Band, and I am so glad we did. Spending the afternoon watching high school musicians was an excellent diversion from the world’s woes, which have been causing me to feel entirely down in the past few weeks.
What I witnessed was heartwarming and uplifting. There were young people of all shapes, sizes, and skin tones. Their instrumental abilities were as varied as their numbers. Some ensembles were better than others, but one thing was evident in each one – JOY!
Be-bopping bodies and syncopated smiles kept time and looked on with admiration at their soloing friends. The finished solos were met with a discreet fist bump, head nod, or huge smile—each member supporting another. I found myself smiling widely.
Those few hours helped to renew my hope for humanity. These directors are not only fostering a love for jazz and the continuation of a truly American musical form, but they are also demonstrating that being part of something bigger than yourself and working toward a common goal can be satisfying and fun. Music is magical.
Rita DiCarne 
Dear Rita,
I find this post so terribly delightful. It is magic indeed, strung together in sumptuous sounds; soaking in the scene, replete with enthusiasm and excellence.
Your exceptional depiction of the energy in the room is a reminder to me that your words are just as magical.
You have drawn several readers in to your space; world; your family, and your experience.
Without your lyrical prowess, we may not have been able to access that transcendent experience that places us in the seat beside you.
I am excited about your son – and duly appreciative of your writing gift.
With Warmest Regards,
~Dr. Carla Michelle
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for your kind words.
LikeLike
My pleasures. Your writing is a joy to read 💯
LikeLike
I love this! So many students have been blessed, redirected, awakened, and found through music ensemble experiences. It never ceases to amaze me how proficient, expressive, and joyful high school jazz bands can be. My nephew played tenor sax in his HS jazz band. I miss going to his concerts! Thank you for this uplifting post – I needed it today!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Music is indeed magical and it was also a joy and honor, I suspect, to watch your son sharing the gift with a diverse group of your people who will carry music forward.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It really was. He is so dedicated to the students and the genre.
LikeLike
Rita,
Music is magical. I thought about the Army choir singing at the governors’ dinner a few nights ago as I read. I love listening to jazz bands. Congratulations to your son on his many accomplishments.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you. I am a proud momma.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I miss being a part of a jazz ensemble. While marching season and concert season could be fun those were ensembles everyone had to do. Jazz ensemble was by choice & the music always more fun to play. You have me curious as to what the musical selections were. Was it jazz of years gone by (Big Band era), post war era (Brubeck or Coltrane), or more modern? Either way listening to jazz is the perfect way to spend a Sunday.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It was a mix of jazz standards and some more modern composers – swing and ballads. Alumni of the University sponsoring the event performed New Orleans Dixieland Jazz. It was amazing!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Music is magic. I am happy that it helped you to renew your hope in humanity.
LikeLiked by 2 people