• DCA Jazz Ensemble

    The nationally renowned DCA Jazz Ensemble develops musical independence through a knowledge of styles and performance techniques of varied contemporary and jazz literature. The content should include, but not be limited to, the following: production of characteristic tone; interpretation of jazz rhythms and articulation; composition, arrangement, and improvisation techniques; performance of literature from various popular and jazz styles; application of knowledge of jazz history; analysis and evaluation of jazz literature and musical performances as a performer and a listener; responsible participation in music activities; importance of music in everyday life.

    Under the leadership and direction of Mr. Christopher Dorsey, the DCA Jazz Ensemble the band’s skill, style and swing has earned them First Place at Essentially Ellington National Jazz Competition in 2011, 2012 and 2018 and First Place at Swing Central National Jazz Competition in 2010, 2011 and 2012. The band presented a workshop/clinic with famed trumpeter and jazz educator Wynton Marsalis at the 2013 Midwest Clinic.

    DCA Jazz Ensemble is consistently represented in prestigious honor jazz ensembles at the district, state and national level. Our students have been selected into the All County Honor Jazz Bands, The Florida All State Honor Bands, The Grammy Band, and the Monterrey Jazz Festival's Next Generation Band just to name a few.

    Our students also earn scholarships to some of the most prestigious jazz camps in the nation, including:

    The Vail Jazz Workshop
    Jamey Aebersol Summer Jazz Workshop
    Michigan State University Jazz Camp
    Standford University Jazz Camp

    PREREQUISITE: Instructor’s approval.

    This course generally requires extra rehearsals and performances beyond the school day.

    Required Activities:
    Winter & Spring Concerts
    FBA Music Performance Assessment
    FBA All State Honor Jazz Band Auditions
    All County Honor Jazz Band Auditions
    Essentially Ellington Competition (New York, NY)*
    Midwest Band Clinic (Chicago, IL)*
    Annual DCA Jazz Gala
    Sweet Dillard Jazz
    Student Juries
    Student Recitals
    Other Ensemble Performances As Announced
    (*when selected)