On Wednesday, Jan. 15, the Huron Jazz Band found out that they were one of 30 bands across the country accepted to participate in the well-renowned Essentially Ellington High School Jazz Band Competition & Festival. 

“I am really excited to be in a competitive environment and challenge myself to the next level,” drum major Rina Shitani said. 

Huron Jazz Band is the third program in Michigan to have ever been accepted into this competition. 

“For our school, this moment was historic,” trumpet player Rudradip Ray said. “Being part of such a prestigious event for the first time is an honor we will carry with immense pride.”

Ray is one of the soloists and had prepared a lot for the performance to sound like the authentic recordings. 

“Each recording session demanded our full mental focus — every note, and every articulation had to be spot on,” he said. “It was hard to stay locked in for the 2 hours, but the payoff made it all worthwhile. The moment we nailed a take and gathered in the control room after the recording session to listen to it was so fun.”

The Essentially Ellington competition will take place from May 7-11 in New York City.