The school year is finally coming to an end, and multiple classes within the performing arts department are already in the midst of holding auditions for next year. April 28th’s Jazz Concert kicked off the first in a series of five finale concerts, so if you missed that, there will be plenty of opportunities to come out and support our Lincoln musicians in the coming weeks.

Lincoln is home to two jazz bands: Jazz Band Too and the higher-ranking Jazz Band. The performers are well-versed in a number of instruments, including drums, piano, trumpet, saxophone, trombone, and bass. Under the leadership of band director Mike Gomez the students played their hearts out, to classic jazz tunes like “My Funny Valentine”, and others with Latin influences like “Sabor de Cuba,” just to name a few.

The event was bittersweet, as there were several seniors onstage who played their last show as Lions.. Now, they will take their love of jazz to new places. This common love for music has led many to seek out careers in the field, either as teachers or performers. As the year comes to a close, one musician reflects on her experiences as a member of Lincoln’s performing arts department.

“My experience as a jazz musician has definitely had its ups and downs and has been challenging for me. I never was one to love playing jazz music, but I decided to continue to do it in high school anyway. I knew Lincoln’s program was exceptional, but I never expected to meet the friends I have and make the relationships I have now because of it,” said Rachael Bailey, a four-year veteran of the Jazz Band.

“Jazz Band really is a family. I love music because it’s about creating something with others that you make into one. It’s about communication and just a common interest of trying to reach perfection. I love music so much I’ve decided to continue music for the rest of my life at SJSU where I will be majoring in music education. Lincoln has definitely helped me see that I belong in the music world.”