Jazz Ensembles

Onalaska offers two jazz groups, Honors Jazz and Jazz Ensemble. Both groups meet outside the school day and have performances and contest requirements. Students in Honors Jazz can participate in Jazz Ensemble as well. It is an expectation that students attend every rehearsal and performance in either group. In order to participate in this ensemble on a wind or percussion instrument, students must be involved in the band program year-round. To participate in synth, piano, guitar, or bass, students must be participating in a music class year-round.

Jazz attendance policy: The success of these groups depends on students’ commitment to attend. Many things come up throughout the year that affects student attendance. If a student’s attendance becomes an issue, they will be asked to step down from the group. Absence from school will not count toward this. Routine tardiness to rehearsals may count as an unexcused absence. Advanced notice will be given for competitions, performances within the community, clinics, and sectionals. Attendance at all performances and contests is an expectation for members of the jazz band program.

Jazz 1

An audition-only group that rehearses Tuesday from 6:45 am - 7:15 am for sectionals (once a month), Wednesday resource from 2:10 pm - 2:50 pm, and Thursdays from 6:30 am - 7:15 am and begin at the beginning of the school year. Auditions for Honors Jazz Band will take place in the fourth quarter of the previous year. Auditions will be live. Performances include the Winona State University Jazz Fest with select students(Nov.), Fall Jazz Concert(Nov.), WSMA Solo & Ensemble (Feb.), SPRING JAZZ CONCERT (March), the BIG BAND BALL(April), and the UW-Eau Claire Jazz Fest (April).

Jazz 2

An open instrumentation jazz ensemble made up of all interested band students. This band rehearses before school on Tuesdays from 6:30 - 7:15 am and Thursday resources from 2:10 - 2:50 pm. performances include The Rotary Lights, MS/Jazz II Concert, and The Big Band Ball