Department of Music
America’s greatest contribution to the world of music is unquestionably, jazz. On Saturday, January 9th at 7:30PM in the auditorium of James Hubert Blake High School in Silver Spring, Maryland; three amazing jazz bands will join together on stage and present seven decades of jazz music. This great evening of music will highlight some of the finest in jazz music, to include compositions by Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman, Glenn Miller, Irving Berlin, Victor Lopez, Sonny Rollins, George Gershwin, and so many more.
Taking the stage will be one of the best community jazz groups in Maryland: The Olney Big Band, directed by Rip Rice. This outstanding ensemble is host to volunteer musicians of all ages who gather weekly to rehearse and perform professionally at so many events and for organizations throughout the Montgomery County and DC Metro area. Joining them will be two phenomenal high school groups, the host band: The Eubie Blake Jazz Ensemble, under the direction of Brian Damron; and their guests, the Einstein High School Jazz Ensemble, directed by Joan Rackey. Three years ago, the first combined concert, Celebrating Benny Goodman, started this annual jazz series at Blake High School, and all three bands are thrilled to continue the tradition this year.
Joining these three bands will be our very special guest, saxophonist and celebrated recording artist, Chris Vadala. Professor of saxophone and jazz studies at the University of Maryland, Mr. Vadala is a Selmer Artist in Residence, and has performed extensively throughout the world sharing his unique sound with professional and educational ensembles alike. In addition, Chris has performed alongside greats like Chuck Mangione, Dizzy Gillespie, B.B. King, Chick Corea, Aretha Franklin, Herbie Hancock, and more; and performing credits on five gold and two platinum albums, plus two Grammy, one Emmy, and one Golden Globe Award.
Tickets are on sale now. Tickets are $10 per person for general seating and can be obtained from any of the band members or can be purchased at the door (box office opens at 6:30pm). All proceeds from the concert will help benefit the school music programs and developing music in the community. Thank you in advance for your support.
WELCOME!
It is our pleasure to welcome you to the home of one of the finest music programs in the State of Maryland. Named after jazz pianist and composer Eubie Blake; James Hubert Blake High School is home to a unique signature program in fine arts and humanities and proudly serves a student population of around 2000 students in Northeast Montgomery County. A rich history of musical excellence and outstanding public performances, the Blake High School Music Department is thrilled to provide an exciting and challenging musical experience to its hundreds of students in 19 classes and more than 12 performing ensembles.
Call (301) 879-1339 for details.
James Hubert Blake High School
Department of Music
300 Norwood Road
Silver Spring, Maryland 20905
blakemusicboosters@yahoo.com
