The Ninth Annual Whidbey Island Schools Jazz Concert was another outstanding success this year. All six of Whidbey’s high school and middle school jazz ensembles participated. Proceeds from the concert, sponsored by the Whidbey Island Jazz Society, provided five $1,000 college scholarships to Island high school seniors entering college this fall to continue their musical education.

Jim Freeman again “conducted” the fun between band changes in South Whidbey High School’s performing arts auditorium. For the first time, the Oak Harbor Wildcats TV crew and teacher Chris Douthitt, provided the acoustic and video coverage. A professional grade DVD of the event is available from the Whidbey Jazz Society. Those wishing to purchase a copy may contact me at 679-2066.

Another first in Whidbey Island’s history was made as South Whidbey’s high school jazz ensemble was recognized as one of the best 15 jazz ensembles in the United States. They were the concert’s closing act and will be performing later this month in the Duke Ellington Jazz Festival in New York City.

I invite everyone is to keep their eyes and ears open next spring for the announcement of the tenth annual concert date. No one will want to miss another fun-filled and rewarding experience, watching and listening to the younger generations keeping music a very necessary part of all our lives.

Jerry Jones

Oak Harbor