Jazz band swings into new school year

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McDaniel's Photography

Senior Noah Pittinger plays a solo on clarinet. The picture was taken at the Sycamore Jazz concert last year. He played in the jazz band in previous years in addition to this one.

This past month, the jazz band had its first official meeting. From trombones to clarinets, there truly was a jazz ensemble.

“Jazz band is a unique club where a diverse group of people can get together to enjoy jazz,” freshman Matthew Swartz said. Swartz plays the baritone and has been in jazz band since seventh grade like all of the freshmen.

Jazz band is not for everyone, but those who do it really enjoy it.

“Some people don’t like it, but I love it,” freshman Adrian Oliver said. “It’s more than just reading music. We’re really taking jazz to the next level.”

Improvisation is the spontaneous composition of melodies. Not all of the members know how to improvise yet.

“Our main focus is improvisation,” instructor Gary Langhorst said. “Right now, we just want to get together and sound good.”

Jazz band meets Mon. after school. Make sure to check them out at the craft show on Nov. 22.