Leonard Bernstein wrote the lyrics – “New York – New York’s a Wonderful Town…” and is it so true for Rio Band.

Mingus Combo wins best combo and Spirit Award:

For the second year in a row, Rio’s Mingus Combo has won the Charles Mingus Jazz Festival, held at Manhattan School of Music on Saturday. Andrew Stephens, Lucas Bere, Mikey Escobar, Joshua Kravitz, Devan Kortan, Emma Hollis and Jacob Swedlow were accompanied by Mr. Kiesner to the festival. Rio was selected as the top Combo at the festival, and was also awarded the “Mingus Spirit Award,” given to the group that best exemplifies the passion and excellence of the late, great Charles Mingus. Additionally, solo awards were won by Joshua Kravitz (piano), Andrew Stephens (trumpet), Lucas Bere (sax) and Jacob Swedlow (drums). After the festival, Lucas, Andrew and Jacob played with the famous Mingus Big Band during a gig at the Jazz Standard. WOW!

Essentially Ellington Finalists:

We just found out today that Rio’s AM Jazz Ensemble has been selected as a finalist for the Essentially Ellington Festival. This festival is put on by Wynton Marsalis and Jazz @ Lincoln Center, and is far and away the most prestigious event for high school jazz groups. This is the third year in a row Rio has been selected, and the 8th time since 2001. We’ll be traveling back to NYC in May.
Congrats to everyone. Quite a week!

We will hold a Small Ensemble night tomorrow (Wednesday) at 7pm in the band room. Come out to hear Rio students perform tunes by the likes of Cake, Charles Mingus, Hall & Oates, Louis Armstrong, Regina Spektor, Led Zeppelin and others. All are welcome.

Junior Bassoonist Emily Dunning participated in the Nor-Cal Honor Band at Sonoma State over the weekend, and was awarded a scholarship to the Cazadero Music Camp. Way to go Emily!

The Sacramento Jazz Orchestra, including myself, Mr. Kiesner and many local jazz favorites, will perform the music of Duke Ellington at JB’s Lounge on Sunday, March 2nd. Reservations are required, as it will sell out. Click Here for the Flyer

Interesting ongoing two month lecture series by Herbie Hancock…Click on Video as the lectures come online..

Check out the series here