Community High School’s jazz program made a big impact at Western Michigan University’s 43rd Annual Western Invitational this past Saturday, with multiple groups earning top honors in the prestigious competition.
CHS combos “Zeitgeist” and “Funky Bill and the Blue Notes,” captured first and second place respectively in the best combo category. Two additional CHS ensembles, “Continental Drift” and “Después de las Seis,” also placed in the winner’s circle, showcasing the depth of the school’s jazz program.
Violet Collier, the bassist for “Zeitgeist” and “Después de las Seis,” received individual recognition as the Best Invitational Soloist (Improviser), further highlighting the outstanding level of musicianship among CHS students.
“It was a terrific day,” said Jazz Program Director Jack Wagner. “The students were wonderful and played with great joy. I am so, so proud of each and every one of them. Our chaperones and parents were an amazing help, and we all learned a great deal.
Award-Winning Ensembles
“Zeitgeist” (1st Place)
Violet Collier, Calvin Ohi, Zachary Michalec, Oliver Jacobson, Sam Davidson, Cameron Payne.
“Funky Bill and the Blue Notes” (2nd Place)
John McWilliams, Nic Villamor, Camilo Ojeda, Elijah Lawler, Desmond Lorenz, Will Militzer.
“Continental Drift” (Winner’s Circle)
Lina Bailey, Toula Greenawalt, Cameron Payne, Avalon McNew, Raphael Allen, Jasper Forgey, Esh Schaden, Liriel Lane, Reese Taylor.
“Después de las Seis” (Winner’s Circle)
Pippi McWilliams, Noah Garfield, John Gerdes, Eliam Rosenberg, Violet Collier, Augustus Kaschube.
Outstanding Soloists
Eighteen CHS students received citations for outstanding soloing (improvising):
Violet Collier, Calvin Ohi, Zachary Michalec, Oliver Jacobson, Sam Davidson, Cameron Payne (recognized for both trumpet and drums), Elijah Lawler, Desmond Lorenz, Will Militzer, Fiona Cuneo, Miles Green, Avery Mayer, Winter Schroeder, Toula Greenawalt, Helio Fong, Eliam Rosenberg, Raphael Allen, and Esh Schaden.
