Jazz back on the program

Bunbury Senior High School’s jazz band is again making music, this time under the direction of the school’s new music teacher David Parkinson.

After a hiatus of several years, the new ensemble features 25 gifted musicians from the school’s music program.

Mr Parkinson has been teaching in Perth, Geraldton and the UK for 10 years and moved to Bunbury recently after seeking a change in lifestyle.

‘‘We, my wife and I, had been travelling around Australia for seven months and we were looking for a sea change,’’ Mr Parkinson said.

Mr Parkinson decided to relaunch the jazz band after he realised the school had a significant number of musically strong students.

The music teacher had 40 students from Years 8 to 12 audition for the band.

‘‘I was blown away with the calibre of the kids who auditioned,’’ Mr Parkinson said.

‘‘I originally wanted to keep the band to eight to keep things easy but I had to accept more.’’

The ensemble has been rehearsing jazz standards as well as songs by Earth, Wind & Fire and Santana.

They will perform in many concerts throughout the year, including the Bunbury Eisteddfod, Queens Cup and Band Festival in Perth.