This past Saturday, March 22, Oakmont’s Jazz Band traveled to Norwood High School to compete in the MAJE State Finals. The ensemble performed in front of three professional jazz educators to receive comments and scores on their performance.

Oakmont performed three pieces: “Moten Swing” by Buster and Benny Moten and arranged by Ernie Wilkens, “Summertime” by George Gershwin and arranged by Terry White, and “Saturnian Sleigh Ride” by Shorty Rogers.

After their performance, the Jazz Band watched other high schools perform as well as the professional Jeff Holmes Big Band before the awards began.

The Oakmont Jazz Band received a GOLD MEDAL, being given a score of 68/75. This means that the Jazz Band will move on to the next level and perform at the Boston Hatch Memorial Shell on Sunday, May 4. Three musicians from the ensemble were given outstanding musician awards. The talented musicians include junior Allison Flannery on guitar and vocals, junior AJ Lasorsa on trombone, and senior Karl Sargent on trumpet.

Future events for the Oakmont Jazz Band include District Jazz Night here at Oakmont on April 17, and the Gold Medal Showcase at the Boston Hatch Memorial Shell on Sunday, May 4. Great job and congratulations, Spartans!