Jersey Community Jazz Ensemble Shines at SIUE Festival

The high school jazz group earned merit awards and expert feedback during the Essentially Ellington regional event, showcasing exceptional musical talent and dedication.

Mar 23, 2026 10:26 AM Mar 23, 2026 10:37 AM

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EDWARDSVILLE - The Jersey Community High School Jazz Ensemble traveled to Southern Illinois University Edwardsville to perform at the Essentially Ellington regional festival, where students were adjudicated by guest clinicians and received merit award recognition.

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The ensemble performed at SIUE as part of the festival, according to Jersey Community Unit School District No. 100. During the event, the group worked with and was adjudicated by Jeff Campbell of the Eastman School of Music, Pharez Whitted of Northern Illinois University and a Jazz at the Lincoln Center representative, and Jason Swagler of SIUE.

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Students also attended master classes led by Dennis Mackrel and Reggie Thomas, the district said.

The district said the following students received merit award recognition for their performance: Anna Beauchamp, Islee Hileman, Makayla Allison, Abigail Wedig, Roanna Newton, Gregory Sams, Myles McDuffie, Hayden Longley, Jack Trexler and Carter Butler.