15th Annual Student Jazz Band Festival

Celebrate Alabama’s rich musical heritage this week at the 15^th Annual Student Jazz Band Festival. On April 20-22, the Carver Theatre will resonate with the talents of up-and-coming musicians as students from middle school through college hone their skills live.

“The hope is to keep the identity of jazz going,” says Dr. Leah Tucker, Executive Director of the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame. “The only way you can do that is through performance.”

In an effort to preserve the uniquely American art form, the festival showcases student musicians from schools around the state. College band directors keep an ear open to for potential recruits, and many students have earned scholarships for their dedication to the craft. “Every year the level gets higher,” says Dr. Tucker. “Those school music programs can be such a valuable opportunity to enrich lives and advance academic careers. I hope to see more even more schools participate in the future.”

Having instructors there to listen and provide feedback is crucial to a student’s growth,” says Dr. Tucker. “It can keep them learning and focused on the right track.”

The genre has strong historic roots in Alabama, and the festival serves to guarantee that the state will continue to contribute new musicians in the future. “A lot of people don’t realize how many jazz musicians are from Birmingham,” says Dr. Tucker. “There are in fact, and many of those were students of Fess Whatley.” The legendary educator taught several ensembles at present-day Parker High School, established the Magic City as a popular tour stop for jazz musicians, and instructed a host of accomplished musicians through the ‘20s and ‘30s.

On Saturday at 1 p.m., aspiring students can attend a workshop hosted by Rashawn Ross, trumpeter and horn arranger for Dave Matthews Band. “Musicians will have a great opportunity to learn hands-on from a renowned professional,” says Dr. Tucker.

The future of Alabama jazz is bright, and the festival offers the chance to see rising vocalists and players as they begin their careers. “Bring the family, have fun, and learn something new,” says Dr. Tucker.

The festival is free and open to everyone. Carver Theatre is located at 1631 4th Avenue North, Birmingham, AL 35203.

Photos by Larry O. Gay Photography.