Nordonia High School Jazz Band
The Nordonia High School Jazz Band offers students the opportunity to study and perform America’s original art form. Through rehearsals and performances, students explore a wide variety of jazz styles—including swing, Latin, funk, bebop, blues, and contemporary jazz—while learning the fundamentals of jazz theory, style, and improvisation.
The ensemble is an extension of the Nordonia Hills Band Program’s commitment to providing a well-rounded music education, beginning with curricular jazz classes at the middle school level and continuing through high school.
Program Overview
Participation
- Open to students by audition
- Students must also be enrolled in a Concert Band or Wind Ensemble
- Rhythm section spots may be open to pianists, guitarists, bassists, and drummers by audition
- Vocalists may be included based on repertoire and ensemble needs
Educational Focus
- Jazz style and articulation
- Improvisation techniques and solo development
- Chord and scale theory in a jazz context
- Listening and analysis of jazz recordings
- Historical context and cultural importance of jazz
Instrumentation
The Jazz Band typically includes:
- Saxophones – Alto, Tenor, Baritone
- Trumpets
- Trombones
- Rhythm Section – Piano, Guitar, Bass, Drums
- Vocalist(s) – Featured when appropriate
Cartoon image of Nordonia Knight with a Saxophone
Performance Opportunities
The Jazz Band maintains a vibrant performance calendar, including:
- Seasonal school concerts
- Local and regional jazz festivals
- Community events and celebrations
- Collaborative performances with guest artists
Student Expectations
Jazz Band members are expected to:
- Attend all rehearsals and scheduled performances
- Learn jazz-specific techniques, including improvisation
- Maintain musical progress and a strong work ethic
- Contribute positively to the creative ensemble environment
Audition Information
Auditions for Jazz Band take place annually. Students should:
- Prepare the required audition materials (posted in advance)
- Demonstrate stylistic awareness and rhythmic accuracy
- Show a willingness to explore improvisation and jazz techniques
- Commit to the full rehearsal and performance schedule
Contact Information
For more information about the Jazz Band program, please contact:
Mr. Eric Vasquez, Head Band and Instrumental Music Director