Under the direction of Michelle Hull and Betty Sue Kitchen, the E. Russell Hicks Middle School Jazz Band performed a jazzed-up version of the theme song to "James Bond, 007" as well as other well-known tunes before ending with the 1950s great "Rock Around the Clock," at a recent performance at Eastern Elementary School.
In addition to playing upbeat tunes to the clapping audience of elementary students, instruments like the electric guitar, baritone saxophone, drum set and keyboards were on display as components to the jazz band sound.
Eastern students were shown techniques in counting and rhythm as they were asked to count and clap along during many of the songs.
The jazz band provided entertainment for first, second- and third-graders, followed by fourth- and fifth-graders during two 40-minute performances.
The jazz band musicians practice once a week, after school, and participate in marching band (in the fall) and concert band during the regular school day schedule.
