MHS Band does well at region, state, and Solo and Ensemble

Terrific energy and focus, amazing soloists constructed and played, nice style in all sections, strong rhythm section and they set up a strong foundation, were some of the comments the judges made to Morgan High School’s Jazz Band at their Region competition on March 7, 2024, at Ben Lomond High School, under the direction on Chad Mclean. Competing against other 3A schools within the region, the MHS Jazz Band played three pieces, “Shakey Ground” Arranged by Murtha; “Come Rain or Come Shine” arranged by Jennings and “The Mudbug Strut” by Baker. 

After performing these pieces, they were given a piece of music they had never seen before, were given five minutes to look it over then perform it. The band received a “I” or a “superior” rating from all judges which qualified them for state. This is the first time since 2018 that the MHS Jazz Band has qualified for State.

The State Jazz Festival was March 23, 2024, held at Alta High School. Unlike most sports that go to state and play against other 3A teams, the Jazz Band competed against schools ranging from 1A-6A that also qualified for state. Playing the same three pieces, they received comments like: “The Band sounds good,” “Good sound and style from the trumpet solo on the ballad piece (Levi Bennet),” and “Great job to the drummer (Asher Johanson).” 

After they performed they were taken into a room to do some sight reading. This time the adjudicator was the Director of Jazz Studies, Dr. Josiah Boornazian from the University of Utah. Once they concluded playing the piece, Boornazian worked with the musicians giving them pointers to make it sound even better. “He gave some amazing advice to the saxophone section on how to produce more sound by moving their jaw into a different position on their mouthpiece,” said the mom of one of the band members, Jessica Bennett.

At State, they received a “II” or an “excellent” rating. “This is a great score and gives them room to improve for the next year,” commented Bennett.

Not only has the MHS Jazz Band been competing as a group in region and state, but several students also competed in Solo and Ensemble. Held at Ogden High School on March 19, 2024, small ensemble groups and soloists, including members of orchestra, played their prepared pieces for the judges. MHS had nine string players including Brighton Nelson, Savannah Wixom Adie Millar, Eden Beattie, Brandon Lindley, Autumn Cottle, Anna Reese, Ally Compton, and Isabella Gailey. MHS also had 10 band members including Levi Bennett, Sadie Bennett, Addy Karren, Spencer Kobe, Isabella Gailey, Peyton Orn, Traven Carter, Jacob DeWitt, Stella Ward, Liam Johnson, and Lloyd Cornelius,

In addition, four choir members including Ethan Hoffman, Jeremiah Peterson, BJ Hone, and Katelyn Farnsworth competed this year in vocals.

Congratulations to Addy Karren who will be going to state with her Alto solo. 

MHS Band is not done yet. On April 10, the Symphonic Band, Orchestra, and Festival will be held at Morgan High School. All groups from the region will be coming to perform from 3-6 p.m.

McLean said he is excited to explore a Summer Band program, so keep your eyes open for more information to come.λ