The Jazz Educators of Iowa (JEI) recently released the names of Iowa high school students selected to participate in the 2021 Iowa All-State Jazz Bands. Southeast Polk High School 9th grade student, Jack Deahl, was chosen to be one of only two drum set players in the 4A band. To audition, students must prepare a two-page jazz etude and perform an optional improvised solo. Drum set players must also demonstrate the ability to play in the funk and Latin styles as well.
Hundreds of students from across the state audition for a place in one of three bands. The All-State Jazz Festival consists of a 1A/2A band, a 3A band, and a 4A band. Students recorded their auditions, and those recordings were sent to JEI for evaluation in early March.
The 2021 Jazz All-State will consist of a series of one-day clinics/performances conducted outdoors (weather permitting), with masking, bell covers, and social distancing precautions in place. The public is invited to attend, as long as COVID safety precautions are obeyed. The concerts will also be live-streamed.
The 1A-2A Jazz All-State will be Saturday, June 5 at the Earlham Town Square Amphitheater. 3A Jazz All-State will be Saturday, June 12 at the Pella Town Square Amphitheater. The 4A Jazz All-State will take place Saturday, June 19 at the Jamie Hurd Amphitheater in West Des Moines.
Congratulations Jack!
