04/03/2008 - Jazz Ensemble Selected For Essentially Ellington Jazz Festival in New York

Reuben Cooper, Jr., Band Director at DeKalb High School has been working to perfect each of the musical ensembles he directs at the school for several years. One of the most prestigious events for high school jazz ensembles is the Essentially Ellington Jazz Festival in New York City. Only fifteen groups nationwide are selected each year from audition tapes. This year, more than 90 groups submitted auditions. For a number of years, Cooper has submitted audition tapes from DeKalb High School with the hopes that the group would be asked to join Wynton Marsalis and other jazz professionals in workshops and a performance at the Lincoln Center.

After numerous rejections, this year the DHS group survived the rigorous screening process and got the invitation the students had worked so hard to receive. The group will join just fourteen others from across the country, May 15-19, 2008 in New York City. Eight of the Jazz Ensemble members also belong to the Boys A Capella group, Fly Check, who won a regional competition, qualifying to perform in New York, under the direction of DHS Choir Director, Travis Erikson, April 18-20, 2008. Both groups are seeking financial assistance from the community via various fundraising events.

The Jazz Ensemble will present "Swing Until The End" on Saturday, April 26, 2008 at the Best Western on West Lincoln Highway at 6:30 p.m. The group will host an evening of entertainment, hors d'oeuvres and desserts, dancing, auctions, and a cash bar. Corporate Sponsorships are available.

Invitation Letter

Sponsor/Donation Form

# # #