The Jazz Ensemble is the top jazz performance group at Indian Trail Junior High School. Interested 6th, 7th, & 8th graders playing saxophone, trumpet, trombone, guitar, piano, bass, or drums make it into the Jazz Ensemble by audition only. Auditions are held at the beginning of the school year, and the most advanced, experienced jazz players at the junior high are chosen to fill out the band.

Jazz Ensemble meets from 7:00 to 7:40am Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Students in the Jazz Ensemble already have a basic understanding of playing in the jazz style, and throughout the year, we build on that knowledge. We learn through listening to and performing a diverse selection of music, from classic big band charts of the 1940's to Rock-fusion tunes from the 1970's, from Latin-Jazz tunes from the 1960's to arrangements and original charts being made by some of the best writers for junior high bands working today. All students are encouraged to improvise solos as much as possible, and we spend much time learning basic patterns for improvisation.

The Jazz Ensemble is an active performing ensemble, with a number of engagements throughout the year, including the Illinois Grade School Music Association District Jazz Contest, The New Trier Jazz Festival in Winnetka, IL, and several school performances. More complete performance information can be found on the Band Department Calendar.

For the Band Department Calendar.

For the Band Department Home Page.