One of the Mount Vernon jazz choir and jazz band’s favorite evenings concluded with a sold out concert Thursday, March 28. The Java Jazz fundraiser featured music from Lincoln Highway jazz choir, Uptown Jazz choir and Swingin’ Stangs jazz band.
“It’s truly our favorite night of the year,” said Scott Weber, director of the Swingin’ Stangs.
Weber was introducing the band’s performance of “Don’t Know Why,” a song made popular by artist Norah Jones. His daughter, Norah Weber, was providing the solo on the song that was her namesake.
Thad Wilkins said that the Lincoln Highway jazz choir competed at the Iowa Vocal Jazz Championships Wednesday, March 27 in Waukee. The choir tied for first place, and after the tie breaker, were in second place by only 1.5 points.
“It was a great jazz season for many of these students, and one they’ll never forget,” Wilkins said.
Caitlyn Brannaman has directed Uptown Jazz choir this year, and Wilkins said that has been beneficial as well.
Weber said that the Swingin’ Stangs season concluded with being on the Iowa Jazz wildcard for the first time in school history, which accounts for the 22 bands who did not make it to the state championship.
“Out of 350 jazz bands across the state, that’s a huge accomplishment,” Weber said.
Members of the Swingin’ Stangs perform during Java Jive.