On February 14, 2024, it was announced that OCSA’s Jazz Band A has been selected to participate in the Essentially Ellington competition set in New York City. They will be playing in the House of Swing, which will host the competition and festival. This will be the band’s third year as finalists for the competition, resulting in many returning players to travel to New York. Three-time competition participant, Arturo Williams, states the opportunity as a blessing. “It feels so great to create a family from making music for the past three years.” says the senior trombone player.

While the majority of the band is composed of players who have been a part of the competition before, there are newcomers as well. Christina Dun, a junior trumpet player, is one among the many first-time participants. “It all reminds me that no matter how much you doubt yourself there is always a chance,” stated Dun. “My work definitely paid off.”

The Director of the band, Mr. Jason Anderson, is also quite excited for the opportunity. “I feel great because we had a big turn over. Half the band is a new band, which makes being able to compete amazing.”

The trip will be six days long, starting around May 6th, as the band goes through sightseeing sessions, rehearsals, jam sessions, Q&As, a banquet dinner, and performances. Five judges will dictate which band is the best through various performances. Each of the five judges specialize in different sections of the band, whether it be rhythm, trombone, saxophone, etc.

The trip will be paid for by generous donations and funds that the band can raise as they travel by flight. With ideas for different fundraisers, they hope to bring a possible jazz gala to life. Currently, Jazz Band A is hard at work, rehearsing during school hours and after school once a week. The band is steadily preparing to win the competition for the third time, with their many practices and the goal to defend their championship.