Sponsored by Bank of America Monterey Bay
In the Monterey Jazz Festival’s ongoing support of music education in schools, we are excited to announce the return of the MJF Regional All-Star Band and Vocal Ensemble, as well as the All-Star Middle School Combo in a new partnership with York School in Monterey. In the 2023-24 school year, students will have the benefit of working with some of the county’s best jazz educators. The Regional All-Star band is directed by Stu Reynolds, and the Regional All-Star Middle School Combo is directed by Dr. Rob Klevan. The Regional All-Star Vocal Ensemble is co-directed by Dr. Rob Klevan and Ms. Janice Perl.
All-Star Band and Vocal Ensemble students who satisfy a set of requirements established by MJF Education department will receive a Certificate of Excellence in Professional Musicianship. Each all-star ensemble, featuring talented students from across Monterey County, rehearses twice monthly while working on ensemble skills including phrasing, blending, improvisation, and rhythmic feel. The bands perform across Monterey County and far beyond, testing their chops on the bandstand while bringing great jazz music to the community. The ensembles have performed across North America at jazz festivals and venues including the Kennedy Center, the National Archives, and Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley in Seattle.
MJF Regional All-Star Middle School Combo 2024
Directed by Rob Klevan
Anna Kim, flute
Alyssa Diaz, alto saxophone
Shyla Alcarez, tenor saxophone
Santiago Gonzales, tenor saxophone
Xavier Morales-Gregory, tenor saxophone
Christopher Alejandro, trombone
Sam Klevan, trombone
Russell Cogswell, piano
Bryce Kanter, bass
Mikey Cordoba, drums
Uriel Gonzalez, drums
