EHS jazz bands continue to give performances worthy of tooting their own horns. Jazz Ensemble I is the best group here at Esperanza, but there are a total of three jazz groups. There are 16 individually talented performers in Jazz Ensemble I. With only 16 players they really come together perfectly to form one of the best local jazz groups in Orange County. All of the jazz band members must audition and are required to be a part of the zero period concert band to ensure EHS has a nationally recognized band program.

Although jazz band’s competition season does not officially start until late February and continues to the end of April, they have already started rehearsing, as they hope to be number one -once again. Jazz meets everyday during second period to practice their music. They are currently preparing for their upcoming concert called “Count Meets the Duke.” This will be a joint performance with Valencia High School held on Dec. 7. In addition to this concert, they are getting ready to perform at the Charles Mingus and Duke Ellington Jazz festivals next month.

During the 2015-2016 school year, Jazz Ensemble I performed in about 10 festivals where they did exceptionally well. In the last school year they were able to travel to New York to compete, and they succeeded winning the festival they took part in. Although they lost a great deal of their band due to the seniors graduating, it is presumed they will be even better this year as they are working harder than they ever have before.

This year they plan on going to Monterey Calif., New York, and Reno, Nev., where they will compete in festivals. At these festivals, they plan to feature star players, Robby Newberry and Zach Nguyen, both on the saxophone. Every Aztec is invited to attend all of their performances.