7 Sandtown Band Students to Perform with the Rialto Jazz for Kids All-Star Big Band

Cascade Patch has just learned that 7 Sandtown Middle School students have been selected to perform with the Rialto Jazz for Kids All-Star Big Band!

Under the direction of Dr. Gordon Vernick -an accomplished author and musician, and head of Georgia State University Jazz Studies- the program accepts the most outstanding students from five of their partner APS and Fulton County middle schools (Jean Childs Young, Sandtown, Ridgeview, Inman, and Taylor Road).

According to Christel Jackson, this year there are 7 students from Sandtown Middle who have been given this unique opportunity to show off their skills and learn more skills.

Students:
7th - Kevin Oliver – Alto
8th - Mekhi Gladden – Tenor
6th - Matthew Register –Trumpet
6th - David Jackson – Trumpet
8th - Nicole Register – Piano
8th - Tre’ Combs – Guitar
7th - Joshua Williams – Bass

The Sandtown band is under the direction of Ms. Sarkino Walker.  Walker has been the band director at Sandtown since it opened in August 2004.  Christel Jackson, a band supporter, says, "the students would not have that opportunity if it was not for her."

The All-Star Big Band played recently as the warm up band for the Eddie Daniels (renowned jazz clarinet player) concert, back on April 2. They have an upcoming performance at the Rialto Theatre on May 7, and will be featured at the Atlanta Jazz Festival on the main stage on May 26 in Piedmont Park.

Cascade Patch wants to congratulate the entire Sandtown band and especially the 7 outstanding musicians along with their teacher, Ms. Walker!