Esperanza High School’s Jazz Ensemble I has been selected as one of only 20 finalists nationwide to perform at the 31st Annual Essentially Ellington High School Jazz Band Program & Festival, widely regarded as the premier high school jazz program in North America. Held at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City, the festival brings together the nation’s top ensembles for intensive workshops, rehearsals, and adjudicated performances.
Under the direction of Brad Davis, the ensemble was selected through a highly competitive blind audition process from hundreds of applicants across the United States and Canada. From April 30 to May 2, 2026, students will learn from members of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra and perform before a distinguished panel that includes Wynton Marsalis. Esperanza High School was previously selected to participate in the festival 14 years ago, underscoring the program’s sustained excellence. The Esperanza Band program is currently seeking community support to help offset travel and instrument shipping costs for this national opportunity more information at ehseu.org.
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