Carroll Jazz Orchestra
Carroll Independent School District Jazz Orchestra has the right to toot its own horn after being named a 2014 Essentially Elington finalist.
Essentially Elington is the largest and most prominent national High School jazz contest — often referred to as the "Super Bowl of jazz competitions."
Carroll will join 14 other bands from across the country at the finals in New York City, May 8 through 11. The jazz orchestra was chosen through a blind audition process.
The finalists will participate in a three-day festival that includes clinics, performances and mentorships.
Carroll is no stranger to receiving the Essentially Elington finalist title. The jazz orchestra was selected previously, which is a testament to the talent and dedication of the Dragon staff and students.
“I am so excited,” says Carroll ISD Superintendent, Dr. David Faltys. “This is an incredible honor. I am so proud of our students and instructors for once again, qualifying for this incredible competition. This competition is an awesome opportunity for our kids to compete on a national scale against some of the finest musicians in the country.”
This year's Essentially Elington competition brings new rules to the table, creating bigger challenges. However, Carroll ISD Director of Jazz Bands David Lown is confident in his performers to take on the headwinds.
Carroll was the only school from Texas to be selected as a finalist this year.
This year's Jazz Orchestra members include saxophonists Tanner Deters, Tien Tran, Colton Ginn, Daniel Canterino, Ryan Adler. Additionally, trumpeters include Adam Horne, Mylon Johnson, Chris Weisberg and Colter Johnson.