Jazz Ensemble
Jazz Ensemble is an advanced-level band class that requires an audition for entry. Students study and perform jazz standards and contemporary music in a variety of styles throughout the year. The ensemble performs at Fall, Winter, Pops, Spring concerts, graduation, and the additional Jazz@Mateo concert, which includes local middle schools. Jazz Ensemble frequently travels around the Bay Area to perform at adjudicated festivals and other events. Students also have opportunities to perform in small combos throughout the year, including gigs, providing a chance to play in more intimate and specialized settings.
Students in Jazz Ensemble can optionally participate in Pep Band, which performs at all home football games during the fall and school rally events throughout the year.
Instruments in Jazz Ensemble include: Saxophone (Alto, Tenor, Baritone), Trumpet, Trombone (Tenor, Bass), Guitar, Piano, Bass (Electric and Upright), Drums, and Vibraphone
Jazz Ensemble receives Visual and Performing Arts credit, fulfilling the “f” requirement for UC a-g admission.
Audition: An audition is required for entry. See audition materials below.
Jazz Ensemble Director: Mr. Abada ([email protected])
A limited supply of school-owned instruments is available for loan during the school year at no cost to families. Some instruments may not be available, and priority is given to students who are in financial need and qualify for free or reduced lunch. Percussion instruments are provided by default, though percussionists are expected to purchase their own drumsticks and practice pads. Wind instrumentalists—including students borrowing a school instrument—are expected to provide their own accessories, including reeds, cleaning swabs, valve oil, slide grease, and cork grease.
Purchasing your own instrument is strongly recommended whenever possible. A high-quality new or used instrument will likely last your student for the rest of their lifetime and is a worthwhile investment in their education and passion! Please see the SMHS Band Materials below for a complete list of materials needed for all band classes, as well as recommended instrument brands. Do not buy cheap instruments from Amazon! They often break and cannot be repaired by repair shops.
Students in Jazz Ensemble can optionally participate in Pep Band, which performs at all home football games during the fall and school rally events throughout the year.
Instruments in Jazz Ensemble include: Saxophone (Alto, Tenor, Baritone), Trumpet, Trombone (Tenor, Bass), Guitar, Piano, Bass (Electric and Upright), Drums, and Vibraphone
Jazz Ensemble receives Visual and Performing Arts credit, fulfilling the “f” requirement for UC a-g admission.
Audition: An audition is required for entry. See audition materials below.
Jazz Ensemble Director: Mr. Abada ([email protected])
A limited supply of school-owned instruments is available for loan during the school year at no cost to families. Some instruments may not be available, and priority is given to students who are in financial need and qualify for free or reduced lunch. Percussion instruments are provided by default, though percussionists are expected to purchase their own drumsticks and practice pads. Wind instrumentalists—including students borrowing a school instrument—are expected to provide their own accessories, including reeds, cleaning swabs, valve oil, slide grease, and cork grease.
Purchasing your own instrument is strongly recommended whenever possible. A high-quality new or used instrument will likely last your student for the rest of their lifetime and is a worthwhile investment in their education and passion! Please see the SMHS Band Materials below for a complete list of materials needed for all band classes, as well as recommended instrument brands. Do not buy cheap instruments from Amazon! They often break and cannot be repaired by repair shops.
2026/27 Audition InformationPlease read the Audition Instructions packet carefully for complete details on audition requirements and procedures: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1m37L2eu3YnFaq-wWXA9MYcAuFwLchZC9MfrCcRZ40NA/edit?usp=sharing
Jazz Ensemble is a year-long VAPA course (UC “f” credit) and is an auditioned group. Current Jazz Ensemble members do not need to re-audition. Students may audition in person or submit a video recording. Audition Date (In Person): Wednesday, March 25 3:00–5:00 PM SMHS Music Building, Room M2 The deadline to submit a recorded audition is March 25. Recorded auditions should be uploaded to YouTube, link emailed to Mr. Abada ([email protected]) All students auditioning must complete the audition sign-up form (required for both live and video auditions): https://forms.gle/ocLdkAzrCc4ymGbW9 Download Audition Materials: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1fEHDqYyVvq5-sBrSurd5w8cP6RneLLOv?usp=sharing Students should register for Jazz Ensemble during course registration to indicate interest. Final placement will be determined after auditions. Audition results will be released on this webpage no later than May 29, 2026. Eligible Instruments: Alto, Tenor, and Baritone Saxophone; Trumpet; Tenor & Bass Trombone; Piano; Guitar; Bass; Vibraphone; Drum Set. Audition Requirements (Read the Audition Instructions packet for instrument-specific requirements)
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