Circleville Elementary School music teacher Danielle Hommel wanted to give her music students another option to pique their interest in music. What better than jazz band to do that!

Elementary schools have concert band and the district has jazz in both middle and high school so Ms. Hommel thought it was a perfect fit. “I want to help grow our music program,” she said.

She received a grant from the Orange County Music Educators Association and brought in Scott Arcangel, a musician, composer and arranger, to speak with the students and share his insight into jazz. Arcangel showed them how musicians improvise – and had several volunteers to share their talents!

The students took turns having what Arcangel called “a conversation,” as one would play some notes and then was answered by another student. The students were eager to participate.

Jazz band will begin its rehearsals in April and will perform its first jazz piece at the spring concert in May. So much to look forward to!

“This is another option for our students,” said Ms. Hommel. “It’s another reason for them to enjoy music.”