DGS Receives High Ratings in Purdue Jazz Fest

Three of four jazz performing groups received Division I ratings at the Purdue University Jazz Ensemble Jan. 21.

The Jazz Ensemble, 7 a.m. combo and 3:30 p.m. combo all earned Division I ratings. Jazz Lab Band earned a Division II rating. The 3:30 p.m. combo also earned an "Oustanding Performance" citation from the judges, placing second in their room.

Junior Pianist Ian Williams was chosen by the judges as the Outstanding Soloist in the West Faculty Lounge performance site.

Senior Alto Saxophonist Michael Ruth earned special praise from the juding panel, earning a half tuition scholarship to the Jamey Aebersold Summer Jazz Camp and a half tuition scholarship to the University of Indianapolis Summer Combo Camp.

In addition to the judges' praise for the ensembles, 18 students musicians earned 28 outstanding soloists/musicians based on their performance during the day:

Carmy Calabria – drums (2) 
Matt Glad – piano 
Joe Hughes – bass trombone 
Sean Hux – tenor saxophone 
Billy Moroney – tenor saxophone 
Brian Moroney – drums 
Joe Perillo – drums 
Mark Plantz – drums 
Chris Reusz – alto saxophone (2) 
Mike Ruth – alto saxophone (2) 
Emily Rzeszutko – trumpet 
John Shimanek – trumpet (2) 
Christian Siki – alto saxophone (2) 
Tommy Stepp – guitar 
Ian Williams – piano (3) 
Josiah Williams – trombone 
Michal Witek – guitar (2) 
Julia Wood – bass (3)

"We are extremely proud of these student musicians and how they represent the learning community at South High School at such a prestigious event," said Glenn Williams, department chairman.