April is Jazz Appreciation Month, and WBGO is celebrating by showcasing some of the talent from local programs.
The George Wein Scholars Ensemble is a crown jewel of the New Jersey Performing Arts Center's Wells Fargo Jazz for Teens program. It's led by alto saxophonist Mark Gross, who also conducts the program's James Moody Jazz Orchestra, and serves as NJPAC's director of jazz instruction.
"These students that we have here this afternoon represent the best of what we have to offer," Gross told Bill Daughtry during their visit to Afternoon Jazz. "They take care of business in school; they're role models for other students in the program; they're hard workers; they're open to instruction, they receive it very well, and they go home and do the homework."
Among the highlights of the band's performance in our studio was a version of "'Round Midnight" with vocals by Alexis Morrast. Watch the full session below.
MUSICIANS
Alexis Morrast, vocals; Jalin Shiver, alto saxophone; Ace Williams, trumpet; Jonah Kreitner, violin; Frankie Occhiogrosso, piano; Joshua Szeimberg, guitar; Ben Rubens, bass (and Jazz for Teens Section mentor); Malachi Lewis and Harrison Strunk, drums.
Audio mix: Corey Goldberg