Showcasing talent and charisma, five Garland ISD jazz bands wowed audiences during the 38th-annual Texas Christian University Jazz Festival March 20-21. Groups from Naaman Forest and Rowlett high schools, as well as Austin Academy for Excellence, won high honors at the music competition for their excellent performances.
“Congratulations to Austin Academy, Rowlett and Naaman Forest for earning top ratings in addition to trophies in their classifications,” said Director of Fine Arts George Jones. “We are proud of these outstanding students and their wonderful teachers.”
After showcasing their skills, Austin Academy Jazz One and Rowlett Jazz Two snagged first-place in their respective divisions. Rowlett Jazz One and Naaman Forest Jazz Orchestra also performed well, winning second and third place in their categories. And, Austin Academy Jazz Two received high marks for their act, as well.
Individual students were also recognized for their abilities. The following 20 performers were acknowledged for outstanding musicianship.
Aaron Goins, Austin Academy Jazz One
Alexander Lovrine, Naaman Forest Jazz Orchestra
Annie Hilbun, Austin Academy Jazz Two
Braden Jones, Austin Academy Jazz One
Brennan Youngblood, Austin Academy Jazz One
Camden Gonzales, Austin Academy Jazz One
Chi-Thien Nguyen, Naaman Forest Jazz Orchestra
David Galvez, Austin Academy Jazz Two
Dylan Mansfield, Austin Academy Jazz One
Jack Hardy, Rowlett Jazz Two
Jason Hoang, Austin Academy Jazz One
Keaton McGill, Austin Academy Jazz One
Natalie Trejo, Naaman Forest Jazz Orchestra
Patrick Hill, Rowlett Jazz One and Two
Rachel Guenther, Naaman Forest Jazz Orchestra
Rileigh McCullough, Austin Academy Jazz Two
Sabian Carthen, Austin Academy Jazz One
Sierra Cougot, Austin Academy Jazz Two
Tanner Sanderson, Austin Academy Jazz One
Zack Renning, Austin Academy Jazz Two
Photo courtesy of George Jones