Editor’s Note: A full schedule of the Maine State Instrumental Jazz Festival can be found on Page Two.
Those who may be suffering from cabin fever and are ready to hear the glorious melodies of spring should make plans to be at the Houlton High School this Friday and Saturday.
The Maine State Instrumental Jazz Festival will be held at Houlton High School with 62 jazz bands and jazz combos, featuring more than 650 student musicians taking the stage to be judged.
“Everyone is welcome to come support these students from across the state as they compete for bragging rights to 80 numerous awards,” said Joe Fagnant, musical director for SAD 29.
Friday’s performances begin at 11:30 a.m. in the Alumni Gymnasium, Houlton High School auditorium, and the lobby of the Region Two building, with an awards ceremony at 3:45 p.m. After supper, the next round of musical selections begins at 5 p.m., with awards presented at 9 p.m.
On Saturday, jazz groups begin playing at 9:30 a.m. in the Alumni Gymnasium and Houlton High School auditorium, and end with the presentation of awards at 5:45 p.m.
Saturday evening will be the final round of the “best of the best” in the auditorium around 7:15 p.m., where each division will be vying for top honors in the state.
The Houlton Music Boosters will serve up delectable home-cooked meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner throughout both days. Snacks and beverages will also be available, with Houlton Farms Dairy ice cream brownie sundaes that are sure to be popular.
Flowers and T-shirts will be available to purchase, and Margit Studio of Pittsfield will be taking professional group photos.
WHOU will be streaming both days of performances live on whoufm.com for those who are unable to attend or have family and friends wanting to tune in around the world.
For more information or directions to Houlton High School, please call Joe Fagnant, festival coordinator, at 532-6551 during school hours. Ticket prices are $3 for students/senior citizens, $5 for adults, and $15 for a family. The Saturday evening finals is a separate ticketed event, with prices remaining at $3, $5, and $15.
