A lively crowd of over three hundred people gathered for the 3rd annual Jazz, Pans, and Pastries event on Saturday, December 14th. The event showcased the extraordinary talent of student musicians from across the school district. The performance featured bands from George McGovern and Memorial Middle Schools, the Jefferson Steel Pan Ensemble, the Jazz Cavs, and Declaration from Jefferson.
Kicking off the event, McGovern dazzled the audience with a unique arrangement titled “Doctor Noel,” a clever fusion of the Ukrainian Bell Carol and the iconic James Bond theme. Mr. Rygg, McGovern’s band director, shared his thoughts: “It is an honor for us to perform because we don’t get to perform outside of our school often. Events like this provide valuable experience for our students- the donuts are a bonus!”
Eighth-grader Ahlyvia Folden, who plays tenor saxophone, added, “Every year I look forward to this event. It’s a fun experience for everybody here.”
Memorial’s jazz band, known for its impressive number of members, brought holiday cheer with a jazzy rendition of “Deck the Halls.” The group, which rehearses every Friday morning, showed a strong sense of camaraderie and precision. Their festive performance was a crowd favorite.
Jazz Cavs 2 took the stage with a high-energy set, highlighted by a captivating drum set solo. The band sounded polished and dynamic, a testament to the support they’ve received, including donated jazz stands from Jay Campbell, a well-known figure in the band program.
The morning’s premier act, Jazz Cavs 1, featured two special guests: Dr. Brian Hanegan of Augustana University in Sioux Falls and Mr. Spencer Wahl, the head band director at Harrisburg High School. Jazz Cavs 1 ended their performance with Declaration, the jazz ensemble for the choir program. Both groups, along with the special guests, held an energetic performance of “Sing, Sing, Sing,” a well-known jazz piece worldwide. Their presence elevated the group’s performance, leaving the audience thoroughly impressed.
Adding a tropical flair to the event, Jefferson Steel captivated the audience with their unique steel pan arrangements, including “Mary Anne in the Snow,” a festive twist on “Jingle Bells.” As the only steel pan ensemble in the region, they stood out not just for their sound but also for their enthusiasm. Students from all grades at Jefferson contributed to the lively performance.
Jazz, Pans, and Pastries is more than just a music showcase- it celebrates community and tradition. The day provided an opportunity for young musicians to share their hard work with an appreciative audience, fostering connections between schools and supporters. The event was a resounding success, leaving attendees eager for next year’s performances.
