Conducted and organized by band directors Brian Zeglis and Ryan Middleton, this year’s Jazz Cafe sees both new conductors for the first time after over a decade of performances. With three jazz bands, themed lighting, foods and beverages, months of preparation and an esteemed musical guest artist, this year’s Jazz Cafe shaped up to be a successful concert.
The Jazz Cafe took place on Dec. 9 at 7 p.m. With performances from the Jazz Lab, Jazz Collective and Jazz Ensemble. The Jazz Cafe was rounded out with a performance from guest artist, Dr. Courtney Jones. As a trumpet professor at Florida Atlantic University, Jones has won several regional and national trumpet solo awards in his career. Jones has performed internationally, traveling with both band and orchestra ensembles.
Excused between fifth and seventh periods the prior evening, West High students were able to work with Jones in the jazz band firsthand. “I thought he was amazing. He brought a great energy to the program, he gave us new insights into the songs themselves and I thought it was a great opportunity to have him here,” said trumpet player, Sam Abdel-Malek ’25.
“I’m very fortunate and thankful that you guys invited me to come here to work with you all and help share my gift of music because we are the dreamers of dreams,” said Dr. Jones. Previously working with Rob and Rich Medd, the former band directors, as well as Zeglis, Dr. Jones was able to work with familiar faces and perform six solos during the cafe.
With regards to changes from past years, percussionist Thomas Gibson ’25 said, “I feel like the level of jazz we’re playing is elevated. I think we’re working harder on it than ever.” As a Jazz Cafe composed of numerous sectional solos from students and songs ranging from almost tropical jazz to experimental, the Jazz Cafe provided a festive Saturday evening.
When asked about how the experience at West High has been, Dr. Jones said, “It’s just a very wonderful thing that you guys have here. This has been a really cool time and I really enjoyed seeing the growth that’s happening. It’s really serendipitous to also see the people that I met when I was here and see what’s going on. It’s been hip.”
