Director of Bands Brian Grieb (center) with the members of the 7 O’Clock Jazz Band (left to right): Elizabeth Smith ’26, Weston Stilley ’28, Aaron Carlson ’27, Mark Nesterenko ’29, Zion McHenry-Wilson ’28, Myles Raines ’28, and Grace Bradley ’29
Hampton Roads Academy applauds its very own 7 O’Clock Jazz Band for earning straight superior ratings—the highest possible distinction—from all three adjudicators in the Virginia Band and Orchestra Directors Association (VBODA) District VIII Jazz Assessment, held at Christopher Newport University on Tuesday, April 28.
This outstanding result marks the first time that an HRA jazz ensemble has ever achieved this honor. The Academy is especially proud to have delivered such a strong performance as the only independent school represented at the assessment.
Congratulations to all the talented Upper School musicians who participated: saxophonists Grace Bradley ’29 and Myles Raines ’28, bassist and vocalist Aaron Carlson ’27, trombonist Zion McHenry-Wilson ’28, pianist Mark Nesterenko ’29, drummer Elizabeth Smith ’26, and trumpeter Weston Stilley ’28.
These dedicated students’ achievement was the result of considerable preparation and exceptional focus. Beginning in February, the members of the ensemble committed to twice weekly morning rehearsals, bringing them to campus a full hour before the start of the school day.
“What they accomplished in that limited time, especially in comparison to many peer ensembles, is remarkable,” said Brian Grieb, HRA’s Director of Bands and faculty sponsor of the 7 O’Clock Jazz Band. “Our students represented HRA with exceptional musicianship, professionalism, and pride.”
According to Grieb, his students’ success is also a testament to the strength of the HRA community. He especially praised Director of Theatre Kate Goddin, who chaperoned the trip; Sous Chef Jesse Rowe and the dining hall team, who prepared boxed lunches for the students; and bus driver Debbie Foltz, who provided transportation.
“I am grateful to be part of a school that supports its students and programs so fully,” Grieb said.
Fresh off their historic performance, the 7 O’Clock Jazz Band will take the stage once more during HRA’s spring instrumental concert at 5:00 pm on Saturday, May 2 (following a choral concert that afternoon at 2:00 pm) in the Svein J. Lassen Auditorium.
