Here’s something not to be missed: an evening of traditional jazz with a youthful spin as music students across Monterey County audition in Los Gatos for the honor of being accepted as an All-Star.
Stu Reynolds leads the instrumental Monterey Jazz Regional All-Star Band, with co-direction by Rob Klevan, and Janice Perl also direct the vocalists. The Regional All-Star Vocal Ensemble was established in 2007. This group showcases talented vocalists who perfect their jazz skills and perform at venues nationwide.
Reynolds directs the Regional All-Star Band, which was founded in 1989. They feature exceptional command of their instruments and are enhancing their musicianship performing at notable jazz venues. Participants in these ensembles allow these students to earn Certificates of Excellence in Professional Musicianship.
The students in the groups are currently enrolled in a music ensemble from middle schools and high schools. The All-Star ensemble members will have the benefit of working with some of the country’s best jazz educators.
Just Jazz
These ensembles add so much inspiration and youthful enthusiasm to the Jazz on the Plazz summer series that you may be amazed at the level of professionalism brought onstage by these students.
The Monterey Jazz Festival was first held in 1958 and has been continuously active for 67 years. This is the 68th year and is scheduled for September 26-28. It is the longest continuously running jazz festival in the world. During the pandemic it was viewed online.
In Monterey, jazz is active and happening year round. It is committed to celebrating America’s creativity and cultural heritage. It was a natural for the Monterey Jazz regional bands to grow out of this rich history of promoting America’s music, jazz. And it seems natural for those who live in this area to enjoy and support it.
Jazz in the Plazz
Los Gatos Music and Arts has invited this inspiring group of young people to Jazz on the Plazz, they do not disappoint. The Los Gatos Music & Arts mission is to “nurture the arts through dynamic and inclusive programming, which includes concerts, festivals, workshops, masterclasses and youth education” (from its brochure). This year LGM&A hosted over 50 students for their week-long Jazz Intensive Summer Camp.
This is the twenty-third year of Jazz on the Plazz.
This summer is unseasonably cool, so if you plan to attend please bring a sweater or a jacket.
Tickets may be purchased at this event for entrance to the Hospitality Lounge. This area is located in a corner of the park and offers local wines, beers and snacks—very convenient if there is no time to prepare a picnic basket.
Areas on the grassy part of the plaza are free and may be staked out after 3pm. Blankets or mats are not allowed within the plaza. Bikes must be parked off-site. Restaurants offer meals and snacks to go.
