On December 4th, for the first time in history the Roosevelt Jazz Band won first place in the PIL Jazz Competition with the leadership of band director Jason Margolis. The PIL Jazz Competition is an annual event that takes place in our own auditorium and contains “All of the top jazz bands” of Portland Public high schools. The participants include Grant, Cleveland, Lincoln, Mcdaniel, Ida. B Wells, and Franklin, and of course Roosevelt High School. While this was a big victory for the Jazz band, it was not won easily, with dedication from everyone involved; working tirelessly from the start of the school year.
In past years Roosevelt has only placed within the top three spots, receiving first is a huge success for this group. Margolis credits this to the jazz bands “bond” and how they have grown not only individually but as a group as well. This achievement is impressive in itself, in addition to this; judges announced four awards at the PIL Jazz Competition, where two of our own Roosevelt Jazz performers, won outstanding soloist awards. Luka Schrock receiving Outstanding Festival Soloist Award and Henry Kay with Outstanding Rhythm Section Soloist Award.
The band was met with an ovation of applause as they came on stage, spectators described the performance as “engaging” and “Jaw Dropping” with no room for critique from the audience. “I’m really proud of them because they work extremely hard and they really care about the music and getting first place at PIL just confirms the potential that they have and that they have what it takes to be exceptionally good” Margolis comments, optimistic for what is to come.
