On May 12, students, parents, and other supporters gathered for the Spring Jazz Concert. The combination of fiery saxophone solos and lack of air conditioning in the student commons made for one steamy night. The concert featured Fieldston’s seven jazz groups: the 9th and 10th grade Jazz Ensembles, Jazz Improvisation I through IV, and Concert Jazz. During the concert, the groups performed pieces that they had practiced to perfection during the last semester: including jazz standards such as “Afro Blue,” “Summertime,” and “Take Five.”
The concert was fun and lively, but tears were shed when the retirement of Bill Sneddon was announced. Mr. Sneddon has worked as an instructor at Fieldston for 18 years, and at various other schools for a total of 42 years. “Mr. Sneddon has been a great teacher and colleague. He has directed the middle school combo, helped with band, taught world of music and directed an upper school jazz combo. He has great plans for retirement and we all wish him the best.” said Tom Christensen, Music Department Chair.
Another bittersweet moment occurred as seniors performed their last Fieldston jazz concert ever. To say goodbye, Mr. Christensen was presented with several personal gifts from seniors. These included a pair of soundproof headphones–an alternative to the earplugs he wears during rehearsals–a cymbal signed by all of the departing seniors as a “symbol” of their appreciation, and other sentimental items.
The concert was a definite success. “I’m really proud of the students in the jazz program and how well they performed on the last concert. It is always a lot of fun to hear everyone play with such enthusiasm and focus,” Mr. Christensen said. “I always hope to keep raising the level of musicianship most of all. The better the students play the more they learn.”
The future of Jazz at Fieldston is bright. The program will continue to develop talented musicians, while preserving the legacy of Jazz. When asked about plans for next year, Mr. Christensen added, “We will go to Boston of course and also play at the Jazz Standard club in NY. I’d also like to make a recording with the bands.”
