A Christian University & Bible College in Texas (Assemblies of God)

Jazz Band Awarded at Temple Jazz Festival

On March 27, 2010, the Southwestern Assemblies of God University jazz ensemble participated in the 20th annual Temple Jazz Festival in Temple, Texas.  The ensemble received superior ratings from all the adjudicators. There were also six outstanding soloists selected from the ensemble:  Kate Jones (vocalist), Elizabeth Monterrosso (alto saxophone), Michael Bryan (piano), Jason Morgan (vibes), Matt Morales (drums), and Nathan Ziehm (drums).

The competition featured 48 schools from Texas and Oklahoma. SAGU Jazz Band received a superior performance plaque.  The jazz ensemble performed three selections in which they were evaluated and assigned a composite rating.   They performed Fly Me to the Moon, arranged by Sammy Nestic; Waiting for Spring, an original composition by Scott Harris; and Straight Note Chaser, arranged by John La Barbera.

A clinic with one of the adjudicators followed the ensemble’s performance. The adjudicator was extremely complimentary of the group for their professionalism, sound, and understanding of the jazz idiom.  He encouraged the students to continue to work hard and study more jazz music.

The SAGU ensemble, directed by Tyrone Block, included lead alto Elizabeth Monterroso, 2nd alto James Anderson, lead tenor Joel Griffin, and baritone Elizabeth Odom on saxophone; Del Guynes, Norman Marshall, Sam Bryan, and Chris Legan on trombone; Morgan Shaeffer and Celia Crane on trumpet; pianist Michael Bryan; guitarist Joel Garza; Robert Willis on the bass guitar; Jason Morgan on vibes; Nathan Ziehm and Matthew Morales on drums; and vocalist Kate Jones.

“The growth of this group over the years has been amazing,” commented Director Tyrone Block.  “When we open up with prayer, we always ask God to bless the gifts that He has given to us.  We always acknowledge Him for the gift, and it is Him who we give ultimate praise. I believe God has seen our hearts and blessed our efforts because we have chosen to put Him first above all things.”

This competition was the first one in the ensemble’s history and sets a positive precedent for the ensemble’s future.