Congratulations to the members of the DGN Jazz Ensemble for a tremendous performance at the 47th Annual Elmhurst College Jazz Festival. One of the oldest and most prestigious events of it's kind, drawing top high school and college bands from the United States and Canada, DGN Jazz students were honored to have been invited to this year's festival.
The band's continued hard work and dedication were affirmed by a panel of three critically acclaimed jazz legends who offered only effusive praise to DGN for the ensemble's sound, style, and attention to musical detail.
"It's pretty amazing, you guys," said jazz trumpet great Bobby Shew. "High school kids playing like that. Very inspiring. For you guys to be playing this well in high school, it's just really impressive."
Gary Smulyan, considered by many to be the leading baritone sax voice in the world today, said, "I was really impressed with the way you share your joy of music with the audience. There was a really beautiful feeling behind what you were playing for us. That really came across."
Trombone virtuoso Andy Martin said, "I thought you guys were fantastic. As a listener, the variety was great. The soloists were all fantastic. The singers were fabulous. The woodwind doubles and colors were just great. It was a beautiful way to start the festival this year!"
Garnering "Outstanding Musician" awards were Sebastian Calvino (trombone), Zack Foster (bass), Rob Kulik (drums), Spencer Schillerstrom (tenor sax), and Amelia Smerz (cello).
Kudos to the DGN Jazz Ensemble for yet another outstanding festival performance on an international stage!
