The program is one of only seven jazz ensembles in the world to be invited
The Lamar Middle School Jazz Factory is one of 40 ensembles in the world invited to perform at the 69th Annual Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic in Chicago this December.
"We are so excited to showcase Lamar's jazz program and our talented student musicians to composers, directors and other performers who come to the Midwest Clinic from around the world," said Lamar Middle School Director of Bands James Hairston.
Only seven jazz ensembles - three high school jazz bands, two middle school jazz bands and two university jazz bands, including the Sydney Conservatory of Music Jazz Orchestra - were selected for the clinic.
"Austin ISD is honored by the invitation extended to the Lamar Middle School Jazz Factory to perform at the 69th Annual Midwest Clinic. As these young musicians share their music with you, their performance represents many long hours of rehearsals along with pride and commitment to doing what they love best.
"Our community is proud to be represented by the talented young men and women who comprise the Jazz Factory," said AISD Director of Fine Arts Greg Goodman.
The Jazz Factory will perform at 4:30 p.m. Dec. 17 at McCormick Place West in Chicago. Two preview concerts will be held for the public.
- 4:30 p.m. Dec. 5 at the Triangle, 4600 Guadalupe St.
- 6 p.m. Dec. 11 at Covenant Presbyterian Church, 3003 Northland Dr.
The Midwest Clinic
The Midwest Clinic began Dec. 7, 1946, when approximately 120 directors from the Chicago area assembled in a YMCA gymnasium on Chicago's West Side for a six-hour clinic and new-music reading session.
Outstanding bands were invited to perform, based on the reputations of the organization and its director. In addition to giving a formal concert, the bands were also expected to provide a sight-reading session, with the selections being requested by audience members on the spur of the moment.
Today, The Midwest Band Clinic continues to feature performances, but now every group that wants to perform at the international music conference must first apply to do so.
Lamar Middle School Fine Arts Academy
The Fine Arts Academy at Lamar Middle School is Austin's top choice for middle school fine arts. Lamar FAA offers students meaningful and enriching opportunities in the areas of visual arts, dance, band, orchestra, choral music, drama, classical guitar, piano, digital arts and media, as well as the nationally recognized Lamar Jazz Band.
Lamar FAA attracts a diverse student body from all corners of Austin, including students from private, charter and parochial schools. Additionally, as the primary feeder school for McCallum High School and Fine Arts Academy, Lamar is strongly aligned with McCallum's fine arts programs.