There are two jazz ensembles in the band program. All Jazz groups are advanced enriching courses that explore those styles of music not normally associated with concert bands. Students will trace the jazz influence on all forms of music, especially the music of the “Big Band Era”. Special emphasis will be placed on scales, chords, blues progressions and other music theory as related to composition and improvisation. Students are placed in jazz ensembles in May of the previous school year. Adjustments in students’ schedules will be made in summer band and at the beginning of school in the fall to assure proper instrumentation in both jazz ensembles.