Use Your Jazz Band to Become the Face of Your Music Program
Wouldn’t it be wonderful if all communities supported music education? Unfortunately, in many communities, music education is a field that needs to be promoted or justified as an integral part of our educational system. One great way to do this is through a small ensem- ble like a jazz band or combo. Te jazz band can serve as the face of the broader music pro- gram, helping to establish a positive reputation among the community. Every good company is intentional about promoting their brand, and I believe our music programs should be too. Te jazz band is a microcosm of the larger music program, and as such, serves as a reflection of the nature and culture of that program whenev- er it performs.
Social Media One way to help promote your ensemble is through social media. It is essential that we stay current and relevant in this rapidly grow- ing area. Social media can provide a platform on which the band community can connect and share. It can also serve as a place where people outside the music community can learn more about the program and follow their accom- plishments. For teachers who are not tech- nologically savvy or feel overwhelmed by this idea, students and parents oſten possess these skills and can help the teacher out tremendous- ly.
Manageable Size Once you have promoted your ensemble, it’s time for them to get out in the public to be seen and heard. Compared to a concert band, a jazz band is a much more manageable group size. Instead of needing a few busses, you may need only one bus. Or you may be able to pull it off with just a school van and some parent drivers. Tis saves on cost as well, which makes admin- istrators more likely to give the “green light” for such events. If a full jazz band is still too big,
Greg Wells
consider sending a jazz combo. Tese range in size from four to nine, and can be better suited for smaller performance venues.
Venues Finding venues for a jazz band or combo is the next step. Consider the many places in your city or town that would love to have a band per- form. For example, retirement communities, farmer’s markets, women’s city clubs, private or corporate luncheons, concert series, wedding receptions (dinner music), anniversary parties, senior open houses, local restaurants, conven- tions, or even before a school board meeting. Just make sure you clearly communicate what the band is capable of and find out exactly what they are expected to do so you can plan accord- ingly.
Promotion Once you’ve arrived at the performance venue, it’s important to professionally promote your ensemble. Tis can be done in several ways. First of all, make sure the audience knows the name of the jazz band or combo. Oſten an announcer will take care of this. Ideally, the band’s logo and name should be visible on stand fronts or a banner for everyone to see. Te announcer may also mention the social media site where people can go for more infor- mation. It is also helpful to have a few business cards in each student’s folder to hand out to interested parties.
Professionalism It’s important to keep in mind that the student performers not only need to perform well, but they also need to interact with the audience be- fore, during, and aſter their performance. Teir attitudes and professionalism speak volumes, and a good teacher will prep them with the proper etiquette for each venue. Remind them that they are representing not only the broader
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