In September and October, members of Tokyo College of Music's Jazz Ensemble joined the Saint Maur High School Big Band for two incredible rehearsals.

During the workshops, director and trumpeter Rick Overton rehearsed two contrasting pieces with the group: a Count Basie blues and a funk piece by Tower of Power. Our students broke out into sectional groups for trumpet, trombone and saxophone to work on technical skills with some of the College musicians, many of whom are upcoming professional performers on the national circuit in Japan. Getting to work with Kenta Igarashi, who is a multi award winning saxophonist, was a particular highlight for our horn players. Hearing his dazzling solos to the accompaniment of our rhythm section up in the Music room was a special moment for all of us. We are thankful for the boundless energy and enthusiasm Rick Overton and his team of musicians shared with our students and for the stunning examples of improvisation they demonstrated during the workshops.

The culmination of this collaboration will be the Joint Big Band concert which will take place on Thursday the 20th of March 2025 in the Saint Maur auditorium. The Saint Maur High School and Middle School Big Bands and Tokyo College of Music Jazz Ensemble will perform joint pieces during the first half. In the second half, we will be treated to a high level jazz performance from the College group. This event has become one of our most popular music events in recent years and is one to mark in your diaries.