The Carroll Jazz Orchestra was one of the 18 high school jazz programs that were invited to participate in the 25th Annual Essentially Ellington High School Jazz Band Competition & Festival, the largest group in the competition's history. For 25 years, the Essentially Ellington program has been the cornerstone of Jazz at Lincoln’s Center’s arts education programming. The program has helped to foster the talent and love of jazz music of over 890,000 young musicians throughout its history. After originally qualifying in February, theband would have typically traveled to New York City in early May for the festival, but due to COVID-19 restrictions and closures, they were able to stream the festival’s masterclasses, experienced one-on-one lessons with professionals, watched Q&As and enjoyed solo performances from June 8 to 12. Congratulations to the below students for receiving an Essentially Ellington award at the end of the festival: Outstanding Trombone Section - Riley Silfies, Jack Kester, Chris Estridge, Nicole Krishna, Jake Bonanno Outstanding Alto Saxophone - Taylor Thomas Outstanding Baritone Saxophone - Diego Peña Outstanding Trumpet - Chase Adams Honorable Mention Rhythm Section - Gus Milhizer, Alec Schwartz, Carter Adams Honorable Mention Clarinet - Victor He
