Mountlake Terrace HS Jazz 1 performs at Essentially Ellington

Mountlake Terrace High School Jazz 1 took the stage at the 2025 Essentially Ellington Jazz Festival and Competition in New York, performing a collection of Duke Ellington songs. Band Director Darin Faul acknowledged the overwhelming support from the Mountlake Terrace community, which he described as unprecedented. The band opened with "Happy Go Lucky Local," followed by "What Am I Here For," and concluded with "Kinda Dukish/Rockin’ in Rhythm. " Although Jazz 1 did not progress to the semifinals, they demonstrated remarkable musicianship, sharing the stage with elite high school jazz talent from around the globe. Brett Holt from the MTHS Music Boosters noted the band's outstanding performance, reflecting the dedication to jazz education in the region.

Other local bands from Garfield, Roosevelt, and Bothell also participated, showcasing Washington's strong commitment to fostering jazz talent. The festival serves as a significant platform for young musicians, emphasizing the importance of community support in the arts. Events like this highlight the ongoing efforts to enrich music education in local schools.