Jazz Informance
When: Monday, November 18, 2024
Where: Boyd W. Arthurs Middle School, Arthurs Forum
Time: 6pm-8pm
Who: Arthurs MS Jazz Band (Trenton) & Pioneer MS Jazz Band (Plymouth)
Jazz Informance Event Information
Admission: Free (Donations accepted to support the music programs)
Guest Professional Band:
Jimmy Smith - trumpet, Jimmy Smith - Jimmy Smith Trumpet
Steven Wood - saxophone, Steve Wood - Steve Wood Duo, Trio & Quartet
Matt Martinez - trombone, Matt Martinez - Matt Martinez Trombone
Duncan McMillan - piano, Jazz Tuesdays - Paul Keller And Duncan McMillan - Duncan McMillan
Pat Prouty - bass, Patrick Prouty - Detroit announces Patrick Prouty as city's new composer laureate
John Hill - drums, Mr. Hill - Oxford High School
What is Jazz Informance?
Jazz Informance is a special event designed to bring the exciting world of jazz to middle school students and the community! Combining elements of both performance and education, this event will feature professional jazz musicians performing live while offering interactive demonstrations and coaching for students from the Arthurs Middle School Jazz Band and the Pioneer Middle School Jazz Band.
The term “Informance” blends “information” and “performance,” meaning that attendees will not only enjoy great music but also learn about the creative process behind jazz. It’s an opportunity for students and the community to experience jazz in an up-close and personal way, with a focus on learning and collaboration.
Event Highlights
• Professional Jazz Performance:
A group of highly skilled professional jazz musicians will perform various jazz standards and original compositions, giving students and the audience a live demonstration of professional-level jazz performance.
• Student Involvement:
Students from both the Arthurs Middle School Jazz Band and the Pioneer Middle School Jazz Band will have the unique opportunity to play alongside and work with the professional musicians. They will receive real-time feedback, coaching, and mentorship on topics like improvisation, ensemble playing, and jazz theory.
• Interactive Opportunity:
After the performances, the professionals will participate in interactive sessions with the students, focusing on improving their technique, exploring improvisation, and deepening their understanding of jazz styles. Students will get to ask questions and try out new skills under the guidance of seasoned musicians.
• Community Involvement:
This event is open to the public, and we encourage community members to attend and support our young musicians. It’s a fantastic way for families, friends, and jazz enthusiasts to experience the energy and creativity of middle school jazz students alongside professional performers.
Why Attend Jazz Informance?
• For Students:
Jazz Informance is an invaluable learning experience. By interacting with and learning from professional jazz musicians, students will gain new insights, develop their skills, and build confidence in their playing. This event fosters a deeper connection to jazz music and inspires young musicians to continue their musical journey.
• For the Community:
Jazz Informance is a great way to support local music education while enjoying an evening of live music. Whether you’re a jazz lover or simply curious, you’ll gain a greater appreciation for the art of jazz and the hard work of our student musicians.
• For Families:
Parents, guardians, and family members will have the opportunity to see their students in action, performing and learning in a fun and educational setting. It’s a chance to celebrate their growth as musicians and witness firsthand the impact of mentorship from professional musicians.
Support Music Education
This event is free and open to the public. However, donations will be gratefully accepted to support the music programs at Arthurs Middle School and Pioneer Middle School. Your contributions help provide resources for instruments, sheet music, and future educational opportunities for our students.
Join Us for an Inspiring Evening of Jazz!
We invite everyone to come out and enjoy an inspiring evening of music and learning at Jazz Informance. Experience the joy of jazz, support young musicians, and see how professional musicians are helping to shape the next generation of jazz performers!
Mark your calendars for Monday, November 18, 2024, and join us for this one-of-a-kind event!
History of Jazz Informance at Arthurs Middle School
Our first Jazz Big Band Informance happened in November 1999 with special guests from the Monroe Big Band. In November of 2000 we invited the jazz band from Patrick Henry Middle School to join us and the News Herald wrote a story about us for the paper.