UPDATE: Three talented students from Marietta High School are making headlines after performing at the 57th Annual Marshall University Winter Jazz Festival in Huntington, West Virginia. Carter Myers (trumpet), Kyle Palmer (trombone), and Graeden Work (saxophone) were selected through a competitive audition process to join the prestigious Marshall University All-Star Jazz Ensemble.
The festival, which took place last week, provided these young musicians with a rare opportunity to collaborate with some of the finest high school talents in the region. They spent several days rehearsing and attending master classes led by renowned Grammy Award–winning saxophonist Roxy Coss and esteemed members of the Marshall music faculty. Their hard work culminated in a performance on Friday night, where the All-Star group opened the festival concert to an enthusiastic audience.
For Myers, Palmer, and Work, this experience was not just an achievement; it was a transformative moment in their musical journeys. They described the festival as “eye-opening and inspiring,” emphasizing how working with seasoned jazz educators pushed them to elevate their skills and envision their future in music. As they shared their excitement, it was clear that this event has ignited a passion that could shape their careers.
This milestone is particularly significant for Marietta High School, which has only recently revitalized its jazz program. Band director Eric Staats expressed pride in the students’ accomplishments, noting that this is the first time Marietta students have participated in the Marshall Winter Jazz Festival. “Being selected by audition and performing in an ensemble of this caliber is a big accomplishment, especially for a program that’s just getting back on its feet,” Staats stated.
Looking ahead, Staats plans to encourage more musicians from Marietta High School to audition for future festivals, viewing it as a crucial step in rebuilding and expanding the school’s jazz offerings. “We hope this is the first of many opportunities like this for our students,” he added.
As the jazz program continues to grow, the impact on these young musicians and their community is undeniable. The festival not only showcased their talent but also reinforced the importance of dedication, collaboration, and the pursuit of excellence in the arts.
Stay tuned for more updates as Marietta High School’s jazz program aims to make waves in the music world!
