Back in the Swing of Things: The Return of Roland-Story’s Jazz Band

By Mason S.

The Roland-Story Jazz Band is gearing up for a year of swinging songs, soulful solos, and jaw-dropping performances. After placing 3rd last year at the Iowa Jazz Championships, this year's band has big shoes to fill, especially to keep the rich musical tradition alive and prove that they are one of the top ensembles in the entire state.

Students have been working hard to perfect their musical selections, from big-band Jazz Standards to modern funk hits. Lead trombone player Bradey Haberl said, “I think this year's music is some of the best I’ve ever played. It's definitely my favorite by far, but it is also by far the most difficult music we have ever played.

This increased difficulty in music is not without reason. The rhythm section currently comprises all returning players: Aubrey Britten on bass, Cael Vermeer on piano, Mason Schnurstein on guitar, with Ella Murphy and Eli Van Hove both on percussion. The rhythm section is the glue that keeps the band together, constantly telling it where and what to do. Therefore, the rhythm section is worth many points compared to the whole band. Having a rhythm section that knows each other, and grooves nicely, already puts us leagues ahead of other bands.

While the rhythm section is very well-seasoned, the saxophone section is still trying to find footing due to the addition of young players. Lead Alto Sax player Kelsey Johnston commented, “All through our sax section is very young, we brought in some amazing, talented new people… We have a lot more work to do this year, and I know everyone, no matter their age, will get the job done.”

Why is all this important now in December? Aren’t the Jazz Championships in April? You would be correct, but Roland-Story is one of the few schools in the state to have its district competition in December. Roland-Story belongs to the SCIBA district, which stands for the South-Central Iowa Bandmasters Association. Our R-S Band Director, Kevin Masemann, said, “All other districts get to do their competitions in February and March. I’ve tried to change it 5 times, but we’ve always had it this way… We have to accomplish it all, and we often go until the very last day because of how good our marching band is. We take time for that, which takes away chances to do Jazz.”

Due to how state placement operates, the R-S Jazz Band must finish either 1st or 2nd at Districts to secure a spot in the Jazz Championship. If the band do not achieve this, they must compete for wildcard points by outscoring bands that previously defeated us. “I am confident we will do great! Let's have fun!” was Mr. Masemann's final remark when I spoke with him. 

The district jazz competition is on December 14th at Winterset High School's auditorium. Roland-Story will perform at 11:02, and awards will be presented at 12:20. They hope to see you all there!

Location: Winterset, IA 50273, USA

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