Jazz clinic for kids

> young players get critique, tips <

Story and photos by A.E. Araiza

ARIZONA DAILY STAR

Sweet jazz echoed throughout the Catalina Foothills High School auditorium as students in Esperero Canyon Middle School's jazz band took their turn performing for judges at the Arizona Association for Jazz Educators' jazz clinic Monday night.

The band, also known as the Sweet 17, joined several groups during the workshop at the school, 4300 E. Sunrise Drive.

At one time they were called the Sweet 16, said Esperero's band director, Roger Valencia. "But we added one more, and they are even sweeter," he said.

At the clinic, local schools got the opportunity to perform for judges who have strong teaching and professional experience, he said. They critique the group's performance and then give instruction on individual instruments, Valencia said.

"It's a super-positive experience for young jazz musicians to interact with professional musicians," he said.

It is also a good experience for Valencia as well. "I'm just trying to learn whatever I can from these guys," he said.

Valencia has been at the school for only four months but has 10 years of teaching experience, including some time in Brazil.

"I walked into a really good group of kids, so the more information they can get to bring into rehearsal will just make us better," Valencia said.

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