Chickabiddy Music:Visiting Kansas City
Johnston, Iowa High School Jazz Ensemble
Under the stewardship of leader Patrick Kearney, the Johnston High School Jazz Ensemble recently visited Kansas City. Kearney says, “Our different bands travel on an annual basis. This was the year for our three jazz groups to travel. We felt that Kansas City would make a great location due to its proximity to Des Moines (we are in suburban Des Moines) and its great jazz history.”
After a performance at Union Station, the students left for a clinic with Master saxophonist, Bobby Watson. Then, the students enjoyed an evening at The Blue Room in the 18th and Vine District. PRESENT magazine asked for their impressions of their visit to Kansas City.
How was the clinic with Bobby Watson? What was he like? What did you learn?
Becky Cooper: The clinic went great. We were critiqued on many things we have heard before, but there were also other things that we haven’t heard that will hopefully help us in the future. He was very supportive of our playing and encouraging about everything we were doing well. I was taught that jazz is something you have to feel, you can’t just read the notes on the page for it to sound great, it’s got to come from the soul.
Nick Davis: I really liked working with him because had some constructive criticism that really helped out the band. The other clinicians who worked with individual sections were what I liked because they played our instrument and gave us tips.
Mallory McKinley: The clinic was really fun. Mr. Watson was totally laid back and just ready to have a good time playing and listening to music. I think the main point he wanted to make and the main point that I got out of the clinic was that we should memorize our music charts. Not that it should be required and we have to, but just that it’s good to. You really learn the music and can then make it your own. I think it brings you to a whole other level of playing jazz—a level that you would want to get to.
Cody Zoss: The guy was really interesting. He's one of those people that seemed born to do what he does—which is to play jazz. I would have liked to spent more time with him, because just being around him for that half an hour allowed me to see just how much he had to give.
Patrick Kearney: I think it is important for our students to come into contact with Master Artists like Bobby Watson. Aside from being incredibly talented, Mr. Watson was friendly and very giving in terms of time and advice for our band. He talked about some important philosophical points that really had an effect on my students. We were honored to work with him.
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