Springbrook High’s music department kept busy this summer. The music department hosted its 10^th annual summer institute instrumental music and jazz workshop for middle and high school students in Montgomery County.

“I’ve enjoyed getting to play solos and encouraging other students,” incoming sophomore Dominic Ellis said.  

The music and jazz workshop was held Monday, June 20 through Friday, June 24 at the high school. The week-long program was designed to build fundamental music concepts in performance techniques, jazz improvisation, music theory and music history.

The students also had the opportunity to learn more about musicians who play the same instrument as they do, which helps to show that anybody can play jazz, said instructors.

The workshop would not be able to run without the instructors and Springbrook’s Music Director Wyman Jones, Sr. The instructors were able to give one-on-one help to the students.

“As an instructor I enjoyed seeing the progress of all of my students,” said Christopher Steele, who is also a student at Howard University in Washington, D.C.

The members of the Springbrook High School Drumline had the opportunity to practice during the workshop. Springbrook alumni were able to help the current members of the drumline to develop their sound and style.

“I learned how to play a new cadence and I enjoyed cymbals skills,” rising junior Wyman Jones, Jr. said.

At the closing program on Friday, June 24 the students performed a variety of songs to showcase what they learned during the week in front of their family and friends.

“I see more confidence in my daughter in wanting to come out of her comfort zone and try new things out,” said parent Cris Talsania.

Katerra Jones is a member of Springbrook High's class of 2011.