Middle School

SMS Jazz Band Performs at State Capitol

By Dan Frisbie

March 20, 2008

The Seward Middle School Jazz Band recently earned the opportunity to perform in the State Capitol’s Rotunda. As part of Music Education Week At The Capitol, the Nebraska Music Educator’s Association offered auditions for the experience.

The auditions were open to all school music groups in Nebraska. The SMS Jazz Band prepared an audition CD in December, 2007 and waited to hear back from NMEA. “The kids and I were excited to receive the letter of acceptance!” Their performance was scheduled for Tuesday, March 4th from 12:00-12:30 PM. Only eight performing groups took part throughout the week. Invitations were sent to Senator Greg Adams, Dr. Barnes, and each School Board member. A program was put together primarily made up of jazz standards, Latin jazz, and ballads. “These styles fit the atmosphere of the Rotunda”, said Mr. Frisbie.

“This was a fun experience for the students! Many of them had never been to the State Capitol, and the opportunity to perform in the Rotunda should be a memorable one for them.”