Jazz Ensemble

The purpose of the jazz ensemble is to strengthen individual and ensemble skill and to teach an understanding of and appreciation for jazz music. This is accomplished through the rehearsal and performance of jazz literature selected from a variety of styles representing a thorough sampling of the history of jazz music. Students participate in the jazz program through the big band, consisting of saxophones, trumpets, trombones, and a rhythm section, or through participation in the jazz combo, a small group with two or three wind players and a rhythm section.

Both the jazz ensemble and combo meet before or after school on a voluntary basis. Participation in both groups is by audition and/or recommendation. Students do not receive a grade for their participation, but are considered particpants in an extra-curricular activity.

The jazz department has been invited to perform at various community and private events around the Atlanta metro area, therefore connecting North Springs High School to the community at large. Through these performances students receive real-world training in musical performance. Prospective members should be able to perform major and minor scales from memory, sight-read at a grade three performance level, perform a prepared jazz etude at a grade four performance level, and improvise.