Eight members of the Mount Pleasant High School Jazz Band were named to the All-Region Jazz Band after auditions at Texas High School on Tuesday, September 18. In order to audition, students had to prepare three short technical pieces in the Jazz style, and improvise with a rhythm section. Having only a few short weeks to prepare, each piece required a high level of skill, as well as a mastery of the Jazz style. MPHS was well represented at the audition, making up 45% of the All-Region Jazz Band, more than all the other schools combined.
Those named to the All-Region Jazz Band include Jordi Bello (Bass Guitar), Gavin Rider (Guitar), Jerrius Vickers (Drums set), Jose Martinez (2nd chair Trumpet), Jayden Beckham (4th chair Trumpet), Sammy Dorantes (5th chair Trumpet), Hunter Mace (2nd chair Tenor Saxophone), and Frank Pina (2nd chair Alto Saxophone).
“I’m extremely proud of each student that auditioned,” said MPHS Jazz Band Director, Jamey Sterrett. “Their hard work and dedication to excellence continues to set them apart from all others. I’m truly honored to assist them on their musical journey.”