The Jazz Ensemble, under the direction of Dr. Miller, became a real class for the first time in school history in the fall of 2009, meeting 7th period each day. The objective of the class is to expose the students to jazz performance/ history/ improvisation while preparing for several concerts, public performances, and jazz festival appearances.
2009-2010 Jazz Ensemble Class Festival Tunes
Enrique Casteneda (violin); Alonso Varela and Ruben Castro (trumpets); Gerardo Rueda, Ivan Duran, and Jesse Castro (trombones); Sergio Puga-Ruvalcaba and Steven Landry (guitars); Jose Vera (bass), and Anthony Lucio (drum set). Latin percussionists include Mayra Quesada, Francisco Trejo, and Omar Gonzales.
The following students made CRHS history by being the first students earning membership in the ATSSB All-Region Jazz Ensemble: Alonso Varela, Ruben Castro, and Sergio Puga-Ruvalcaba.
2008-2009 Jazz Ensemble
Saxophone: Stephen Martinez; Trumpets: Josue Rivas, Melissa Salas, Alonso Varela, Ruben Castro; Trombones (and Euphonium): Diana Martinez, Jerry Rueda, Francisco Quezada; Rhythm Section: Octavian Johnson - piano, Jose Vera - bass, Reyes Rodriguez - drums
The 2008-2009 Jazz Ensemble performed at a jazz festival for the first time in school history, earning a second place trophy in their division at the Highlander Jazz Festival. The following students received individual honors as Outstanding Jazz Musicians:
Stephen Martinez, Josue Rivas, Diana Martinez, Octavian Johnson, and Jose Vera. Congratulations to all members of the 2008-2009 Jazz Ensemble!