U-19s at First Friday, February 2022. Photo by Frederick Liang.
The U19s takes the stage at First Friday, presented as part of San Jose Jazz Winter Fest: Counterpoint with Ukraine. Art lovers can enjoy a lounge-like atmosphere with live music, drinks, and open galleries. Music starts at 7pm in the Wendel Education Center.
- Free admission after 6pm
- Shop local! The Museum Store is also open late
- Late-night bites + cash bar at El Cafecito, by Mezcal
The u19s
The U19s combo features select students from San Jose Jazz's audition-based High School All Stars ensemble. The student-led combo give promising young musicians the opportunity to work in small groups, rehearse repertoire chosen by themselves and get specialized instruction and coaching. This ensemble performs regularly throughout the season and for special engagements separate and apart from the main HSAS big band ensemble.
2022-23 U19s members Ryota Sato and Jeremy Darrell were given the opportunity to arrange Ukrainian folk songs, under the tutelage of drummer/educator John Hollenbeck. Their arrangements will be performed by the full HSAS ensemble as they open for Hollenbeck's project GEORGE at the 2023 Winter Fest on Friday, February 24 at 7pm. Info at sanjosejazz.org/winterfest.