Bakersfield College once again gives high school students the spotlight as they play in the morning session of the ninth annual KCMEA Jazz Day. The talented young artists brought classics to the audience’s ears and modernity to the stage which made for an interesting duality.
The morning session was from 9:20 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., with performances by: Shafter, Foothill, Del Oro, South, Highland, Bakersfield, and Stockdale High School jazz bands. All performing a variety of songs with alternating vocalists in each song.
Excitement from the crowd emerged during “Spain” performed by the Foothill High School Little Big Band with the audience clapping along to the rhythm. The young vocalist, Michelle Martinez, a senior, put on a beautiful transatlantic accent whilst singing adding to the jazz feel. Her voice truly captured the audience’s attention in that performance.
John Barker, Foothill’s orchestra advisor said events like Jazz Fest “keeps jazz alive in our community.” Barker believes BC is a great place to perform and considers it as a start in the students’ college career.
Following the Little Big Band was Del Oro’s High School Jazz Orchestra. The band presented a variety of songs played wonderfully with notes of Latin music. The orchestra added a nice twist to the classic tone of jazz. Orchestra advisor Daniel Musquez added to Barker’s statement and said, “Bakersfield College has a very strong & supportive music program.”
The South HS Spartan Jazz Ensemble directed by Tyler Poe played their program next, playing a clean and traditional set with a surprising last song. The ensemble played their final song “Bird Land” a rock heavy tune that caught the audience by surprise and incited a few headbangs which is unique for a jazz event but made for an interesting turn.
The event was a great opportunity for young musicians to showcase their talents and get a feel for the musical pathway at BC. The jazz day high school session presented a time warp between the identity expression of the students playing such timeless tunes.