Aspiring musicians from Churchville-Chili High School and Brockport High School will have the opportunity to work one-on-one with several members of the legendary Count Basie Orchestra (CBO) before their performance for the community on Wednesday, March 4 at the C-C PAC. The master class will be held that afternoon for the members of both schools’ Jazz Ensembles.
“This is an extraordinary chance for our young musicians to get direct feedback and critique from a group of the world’s most renowned jazz artists,” says C-C Director of Fine Arts Jeffrey Smith. “It is a rare honor, and we are so appreciative of these musicians’ selfless willingness to give back and to share their expertise with our students.”
“Many of us have been studying and playing since fifth grade,” says trumpet player Wesley Burke. “We’re especially excited about exploring advanced improvisation techniques with artists of this caliber.”
“This is the first time, as jazz musicians, that we’ve had a chance like this,” says trombonist Kevin Dick.
Senior Jane Huffer sums up the group’s opinion of the music program at C-C, “It is an awesome program with great teachers and we have an exceptional performance center that attracts the best artists to our community.”
As an additional distinction, C-C’s own Senior High School Wind Ensemble, under the direction of teacher Kevin Mead, will be opening for The Count Basie Orchestra’s performance that evening. The CBO concert is scheduled for 7 p.m. and will be directed by renowned jazz trumpet player Scotty Barnhart. Tickets can be purchased online atwww.showclix.com/event/countbasieorchestra: $13 student discount (only available at the box office), $15 online presale, $19 at the Box Office.
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