Jazz Bands I and II
Welcome!
Jazz ensembles have been a staple at LLHS for decades, providing students the opportunity to learn and play different styles of music in a smaller ensemble than that of the traditional band. Many students learn a secondary instrument just to be able to participate in these groups!
Didn’t Jazz go Out of Style…
Jazz music is one of the most American forms of music, with it’s roots found in the call-and-response style songs sung by African slaves. It’s easy to think that this style of music has long since gone out of style, but that is most certainly not the case! Jazz music has been in a constant state of evolution since it’s inception, with modern variations found in rock, soul, pop, and more! So, no, Jazz music hasn’t gone out of style; it’s just evolved, and if you pull up a seat, you’re sure to hear some familiar tunes, as well as some new favorites when you listen to our Jazz ensembles play!
Jazz I and II at LLHS
Jazz Band 1 meets on a daily basis during the zero hour period which is before school and is open to all members of the Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band who can perform on an appropriate instrument. The group studies a variety of contemporary musical styles (Jazz, Rock, Swing, "Big Band", Latin, etc.) with additional emphasis on building skills in jazz improvisation. Acceptance into the group is based on a prepared audition and band director's approval. Jazz Band performs at concerts, local and regional festivals and for other special events. Attendance at ALL performances is required.
Jazz 2 will be offered if enough interest is generated. Jazz 2 is an open ensemble that does not require an audition for membership.
Expectations and Eligibility
Membership in either Jazz ensemble requires a substantial commitment of time, energy, and effort. Placement in Jazz I is at the discretion of the Band Directors, and requires an audition. It takes extra commitment to belong to Jazz I and Jazz II because of how early these ensembles rehearse, and it is expected that students practice at home a minimum of 30 minutes per day, at least six days a week.
Additionally, students must maintain eligibility requirements as determined by the New Mexico Activities Association to be a full member of the marching band. This includes submitting an annual physical as well as maintaining a 2.0 GPA. Further information can be found on the NMAA website.
Lettering Requirements
General Band Requirements:
1. A student must have at least one and one-half years of service with the LLHS Tiger Band to be eligible for a letter. Exceptions may be made for transfer students from other schools that have completed one successful year in the LLHS Tiger Band. Exceptions will be handled on an individual basis by the band director.
2. Freshman lettering will be retroactive. A student may receive a letter for their freshman year if they have earned enough points to be eligible. However, they may not receive the letter until they have met the requirements for the second year. It is felt that the student must have at least one and one-half years of service with the LLHS Tiger Band in order to be eligible for the letter awards.
3. A student must attend ALL required performances in order to letter. Missing a required performance, in any ensemble, will result in no letter for that year. In the case of excused absences approved by the directors ahead of time, students may make up lettering points by doing extra service projects.
Jazz Band Requirements:
A Jazz Band Letter can be earned by 90% attendance at rehearsals and 100% attendance at all Jazz Band performances. A student must maintain an "A" in the class for the entire year. In addition, students in Jazz I must audition for Jazz All-State. Students in Jazz 2 must complete a jazz project during the second semester of Jazz Band.