 | | | Young musicians take center stage Photo Doug Kohen
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It's amazing what happens when you combine a dedicated teacher, kids motivated and hungry to learn, supportive parents, and a community committed to the arts. Students from Lafayette could not have found a more nurturing environment to master the art of music. All of their practice hours came together at last Friday's Jazz Café.
A total of eight bands entertained a packed multi-purpose room/jazz lounge at Stanley Middle School - four from Stanley and four from Acalanes. Representing Stanley was the 39-member strong Stanley Jazz Orchestra, Jazz Surge, the Jazzkateers and The Wednesday Morning Combo; representing Acalanes was the 24-member Acalanes Jazz Ensemble, the Gypsy Chicks, Flying Solo and On In Five.
All of the Stanley students had an opportunity to improvise, pals Emma Maiden and Lauren Chuck confessed to being "a little nervous" before their performances. "Playing music expresses my creativity at a whole new level," said Maiden. She's been playing at Stanley for three years and plans to continue at Acalanes. Fellow eighth grader Chuck will be attending Campo, plays the flute and saxophone, and she also feels music helps her articulate her individuality.
"I like students to take chances and improvise," said Stanley Director of Music Education Bob Athayde. It's clear he has found his passion at Stanley. "No one gets cut - we find a place for everyone - there are no substitutions." His philosophy is embodied in the music department's motto, "We all play together." They play together a lot - students arrive early before school to practice and get no credit. "Doing something well takes time," notes Athayde - an important life lesson for these 12-, 13- and 14-year olds.
The Jazz Café crowd enjoyed a unique arrangement by Kyle Athayde of "Old Devil Moon;" the younger Athayde, a professional musician, comes by way of the Julliard School of Music. "He used to be my student, now he's my teacher," said proud papa Bob.
A concerted effort from parent volunteers transformed the Multi-purpose room - candles, special lighting and decorations - into Yoshi's East. Unlike the celebrated jazz club's sushi and sashimi plates, there were tri-tip sandwiches and Caesar salad provided by Chef's Touch.
Athayde credits many talented volunteers who generously give their time to support these students. Tommy Davidson, John Aczon, Chris Mani and David Portnoff help on a daily basis with music and direction. A special shout out went to 87-years-young bass clarinet player Nick Longo who comes every day, with his "New York attitude," and Ginni Reynolds, who keeps the Music Office running smoothly along with LASF, the PTA and the Generations in Jazz Foundation.
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Lamorinda Weekly, Moraga CA