Hot sun, cool jazz
13 Aug 2019
The sun shone on the top of the South last week, as young musicians from schools across the South Island converged on Blenheim for Southern Jam 2019.
Always a highlight on the College calendar, Southern Jam is an exuberant celebration of jazz, featuring big bands, jazz ensembles and combos, plus a music competition and gala concert showcasing pieces from all participating schools, the All Stars Band, and a performance by singer-songwriter Hollie Smith.
After months of preparation and rehearsal – and fun – Director of Big Band Claire Oliver steered College to a well-deserved Gold Award, and Year 11 student and saxophonist Shyam Hari was selected to play baritone sax for the All Stars Band.
According to Head of Instrumental Music Nick Coxon it was, as ever, a busy, thrilling and memorable week of music making and performing.
The 2019 Southern Jam Youth Jazz Festival was held at schools and public venues in and around Blenheim from Wednesday 7–Sunday 11 August.
