Under the direction of Jason Margolis, the Roosevelt High School Jazz band, has represented North Portland well. In the last three years they have put six trophies in the case. This year alone the band placed first at the west salem jazz festival, First at the University of Portland Jazz festival, and second at the Mount Hood Jazz Festival. The small combo also represented, placing second at West Salem, and second at the Pleasant Hill Jazz Festival. On top of all this, several students were presented soloist and musicianship awards at each festival.
What RHS jazz has most importantly achieved, is building a community for young musicians to create and grow in their art. The bands dedication and hard work is demonstrated in kids practicing during lunchtime, and staying after school, to work on their craft. The Future looks bright for Roosevelt jazz.
- KBOO