The Skyline College Vocal Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Band, led by Michelle Hawkins and Zack Bruno, traveled to Reno, Nevada on April 12, 2014 to perform at the Reno Jazz Festival, the largest and most prestigious jazz festival in the Western United States. College, high school, and middle school choirs and bands from California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Nevada, and Arizona performed and received constructive comments from prominent music educators and ensemble directors who served as judges and clinicians. Students also attended live concerts and recitals by professional jazz musicians who performed as part of the festival. The Skyline College Vocal Jazz Ensemble, in its first semester of existence, earned second place out of 12 ensembles in the collegiate division. Skyline College student musicians were thrilled with the award and honored to represent Skyline College and the Music Department at this high-profile event. “I can’t wait to perform again!” exclaimed Calvin Htet, tenor and first-year student. The Skyline College Vocal Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Band will perform at the 2014 Commencement Ceremony on May 23.
Participation at the Reno Jazz Festival was made possible by generous funding from the Associated Students of Skyline College (ASSC) and the Social Science/Creative Arts Division.
Article by Michelle Hawkins and Dr. Zachary Bruno | Photo by Teresa Tam Studio
