Columbus City Schools Jazz Festival Thursday, May 06, 2010
I had the priveledge to be a clinician at the first CCS Jazz Festival held at Dominion Middle School on Saturday, May 1, 2010. Hosted by Bruce Carlson, Dominion MS band director, this exceptionally run event was the epitome of what a festival should be.
The day began with a performance by the professional, Columbus based jazz quartet Standard Time, led by trombonist Matt Ellis. Following were breakout clinics for all of the student musicians conducted by ten of the leading jazz educators in the area. Then from 10am to 2:30pm, five CCS middle school and three high school jazz ensembles each performed three to four selections. After each performance the individual bands went to a separate room and had a critique from one of the clinicians. The day wrapped up with a performance by student musicians, grades 7-12, selected from the entire district. Led by CCS jazz educator Mark Donovan, the Columbus City All-Stars was a rousing wrapup to a wonderful day of jazz.
Congratulations to Bruce Carlson of Dominion Middle School on a hugely successful day! May this be the first of many festivals to come!
The Jazz Guy
