On Tuesday April 17, various Jazz Performers celebrated its 3rd annual Jazz Fest in the Texas A&M International University. Jazz Ensembles from United Independent School District, Laredo Independent School District and TAMIU Jazz Big Band, hosted their piece at the Recital Hall from 7:30 until 9:30 pm.
The Jazz Bands consisted of Ensembles from different middle and high schools of the Laredo community. United Middle School, whose director was Jose Lopez,Cigarroa High School, who was directed by Bobby Castro, United High School, who were directed by Frank Sosa and Paul Foster, Director Robert Lopez from Vidal M. Treviño High School, and at last Jerry Quintero directing TAMIU Jazz Ensemble. Each school showcased about three songs that at the end of the event made the audience present stand up and applause the performance.
There was a song very popular which was played by two schools. While performing their solos, some students showcased their musical talent to the audience. Instruments such as trumpet, saxophone, guitars of differents styles, bass, piano, and more, were portrayed by the musicians. Robert Lopez was invited to play it solo of trumpet along with UHS Jazz Band. Vocals could not be missed at this event and VMT High School and TAMIU portrayed the vocalist talent in their campus. Joel Bazan one of the TAMIU vocalist interacted with the public through his song, “I’ve Got You Under My Skin.” He went to the audience and sang directly to women among the audience and even getting a teenager up stage being all part of the show.
The Jazz Fest give the opportunity to students show their talent and skills. It also give the audience a new perspective of what a school band may offer and what students may develop as a musician. This event will take place year after year in order to cultivate Jazz Music to the community of Laredo.
For more information the public may contact Jerry Quintero at (956) 326-3077
(Sandy Lugo may be reached at sandylugoespinoza@dusty.tamiu.edu)