The Rio Rico High School Jazz Bands are comprised of students with advanced musicianship who have expressed an interest in learning how to chase the swing, about the art of improvisation, and about the language of jazz. The Red Jazz Band has a standard big band instrumentation determined by audition: 2 Alto Saxes, 2 Tenor Saxes, 1 Baritone Sax, 4 Trumpets, 4 Trombones, and a rhythm section of drums, bass, and piano.
The Black Jazz Band aims for a similar instrumentation, also determined by audition. Our instrumentation fluctuates in this group as all auditioning students are welcome to play in this ensemble. We have been known to add a clarinet, a tuba, a flute, or a guitar on occasion as well when called for in the music!
The groups rehearse and perform outstanding quality jazz literature arranged for the intermediate to advanced high school jazz ensemble. Students take turns improvising for each other and study the history and cultural relevance of these pieces. Jazz is a truly all-American art form and is an integral part of our American heritage.