Showcasing talent and charisma, five Garland ISD jazz bands wowed audiences during the 38th-annual Texas Christian University Jazz Festival March 20-21. Groups from Naaman Forest and Rowlett high schools, as well as Austin Academy for Excellence, won high honors at the music competition for their excellent performances.
“Congratulations to Austin Academy, Rowlett and Naaman Forest for earning top ratings in addition to trophies in their classifications,” said Director of Fine Arts George Jones. “We are proud of these outstanding students and their wonderful teachers.”
After showcasing their skills, Austin Academy Jazz One and Rowlett Jazz Two snagged first-place in their respective divisions. Rowlett Jazz One and Naaman Forest Jazz Orchestra also performed well, winning second and third place in their categories. And, Austin Academy Jazz Two received high marks for their act, as well.
Individual students were also recognized for their abilities. The following 20 performers were acknowledged for outstanding musicianship.
- Aaron Goins, Austin Academy Jazz One
- Alexander Lovrine, Naaman Forest Jazz Orchestra
- Annie Hilbun, Austin Academy Jazz Two
- Braden Jones, Austin Academy Jazz One
- Brennan Youngblood, Austin Academy Jazz One
- Camden Gonzales, Austin Academy Jazz One
- Chi-Thien Nguyen, Naaman Forest Jazz Orchestra
- David Galvez, Austin Academy Jazz Two
- Dylan Mansfield, Austin Academy Jazz One
- Jack Hardy, Rowlett Jazz Two
- Jason Hoang, Austin Academy Jazz One
- Keaton McGill, Austin Academy Jazz One
- Natalie Trejo, Naaman Forest Jazz Orchestra
- Patrick Hill, Rowlett Jazz One and Two
- Rachel Guenther, Naaman Forest Jazz Orchestra
- Rileigh McCullough, Austin Academy Jazz Two
- Sabian Carthen, Austin Academy Jazz One
- Sierra Cougot, Austin Academy Jazz Two
- Tanner Sanderson, Austin Academy Jazz One
- Zack Renning, Austin Academy Jazz Two
