The Mission Viejo High School Jazz Band is comprised of musicians from all grade levels who typically audition to earn a place in this highly-talented band of approximately twenty players, and is currently offered as a 2nd period class during the school day. Many of these students also participate in one or more of the other MVHS Instrumental Music Ensembles such as Marching Band and/or Concert Ensembles. Jazz performances move beyond the traditional stage to also Include a cabaret-style jazz night In November called the Jazz Cafe, and a "Jazz under the Stars" performance in May. At their performances, the jazz band plays a variety of jazz, including swing, Latin, and contemporary charts. Much of the music played approaches college and professional level in its complexity, and the band even plays tunes performed and recorded by some of the best big bands in history.

 

For many years, the Jazz Band auditioned to participate in the Next Generation Jazz Festival held in the spring in Monterey, California. Almost annually, the MVHS Jazz Band had been selected to compete against twelve other high schools, judged to be one of the best in the nation, at this highly prestigious National Festival. The Next Generation Jazz Festival was a wonderful opportunity for our students to meet fellow musicians and hear some of the best in high school jazz. Sadly, the Next Generation Jazz Festival shut down in 2020 and has yet to be revived. The Jazz Band also participates annually at the Irvine Jazz Festival showcasing high school jazz bands from Riverside, Los Angeles, and Orange counties. MVHS parents, friends, and the community are encouraged to attend and witness the extraordinary performances of our next generation of jazz musicians. 

 

The MVHS Jazz band is also invited to perform at the "Friends of Jazz" concert series in early Spring. The Friends of Jazz was founded as a non-profit in 1999 and their mission is to assure the continued growth and development of jazz performance, appreciation and education. The motto " Keeping Music in the Schools" continues to be their guiding force. Prior to their performance date, students are invited to fill out a scholarship form. During the performance, not only are the students exposed to more of a jazz club atmosphere, but one student may be surprised with a scholarship donated by the Friends of Jazz to help further their music education.