Memphs, TN – From May 7 to 11, 30 of the top high school jazz bands from the United States, Australia, Spain, and Japan gathered in New York City for the prestigious Essentially Ellington Competition and Festival, presented by Jazz at Lincoln Center. Among them was a standout ensemble from our own community: the Memphis Central High School Jazz Band, under the direction of Dr. Ollie Liddell, Director of Bands.
Central High School band students in New York City for the Essentially Ellington competition.In addition to taking home the top prize, the band earned several standout honors:
- First Place Overall
- Outstanding Trumpet Section
- Outstanding Trombone Section
- Outstanding Rhythm Section
- Outstanding Alto Saxophone Soloist: Jackson H.
- Outstanding Trumpet Soloist: Kingston G.
- Outstanding Trombone Soloist: Marqese C.
For the students, this moment marked the culmination of months of rigorous practice and anticipation. Their dedication paid off in a big way, earning them top honors at one of the most respected high school jazz competitions in the world.
On Monday, May 12, the band returned home to an electrifying welcome at Memphis International Airport, where proud parents and community members gathered to celebrate their success. “We’re the best high school jazz band in the world this year,” Dr. Liddell said. “This is a win for the city.”
Dr. Ollie Liddell being interviewed by local news upon arrival at Memphis International Airport.Behind the scenes, countless late nights and meticulous preparations helped lead the band to victory. “I'm up late just listening to recordings and analyzing recordings, rehearsals, making notes,” Dr. Liddell shared. Students echoed his passion. “We’ve been looking forward to it for a long time and it finally happened,” said trombone player Marquese C.
Fellow band member Samuel R. added, “We had to act like every single day was the finals to the Essentially Ellington and put that much passion into it.” Their unwavering commitment and teamwork were key to their success.
A Central band student accompanied by their father.Essentially Ellington is far more than a competition; it’s an immersive celebration of jazz, focused on the legacy of Duke Ellington and his peers. Students not only perform, but also participate in workshops, rehearsals, and performances led by world-renowned jazz musicians. The festival concluded in a grand finale concert at the Metropolitan Opera House, featuring student ensembles and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, led by Wynton Marsalis.
Dr. Liddell has led Central’s band program for over a decade and is deeply respected for his musicianship and mentorship. A gifted trombonist and dedicated educator, Dr. Liddell has been recognized with numerous honors, including the Country Music Association Foundation Music Teacher of Excellence award, GRAMMY Music Educator of the Year Semifinalist, and the Downbeat Lifetime Achievement Award for Jazz Education.
A Central band student accompanied by their mother.The triumph at Essentially Ellington is not just a victory for Central High – it is a proud moment for Memphis, and a testament to what passion and community support can achieve. Greatness Grows Here!
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