Although the Jazz festival isn’t until February, a taste of jazz is coming on Oct. 18 at 7 p.m. in the auditorium.

“People can get a sense of energy from the music and feel musically diversified by all the artistic elements jazz brings to its performances,” Director of jazz, David Seifert says. “There are a lot of emotions in jazz music.”

Three different jazz groups will play different styles on Oct. 18: Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Band and Lab Band. The event will also include performances by jazz sub-genres like swing, Latin, ballad and jazz-fusion. Doors open at 6:45 and admission is free.

“Jazz was the first genre of music to ‘swing’ which is referring to the feel of the music. Historically, jazz also was very empowering for people of color and women,” senior Joey Bonansinga says.

The bands have not only been practicing early in the morning and several times a week, but also spend time outside of rehearsal to prepare for the concert.

“I’ve been practicing as much as possible and listening to the music,” Senior Bailey Mizenberger says. “The morning hours can be a little rough sometimes, but it’s worth it in the long run. I can’t think of a better way to start my day.”

When jazz musicians take a solo, the performer composes music on the spot, similar to a rapper freestyling. In the case of jazz, the soloist has to find appropriate pitches and rhythms that fit the complicated musical form. Jazz is has a mix of written down music and improvisation.

“The improvisation of jazz gives me an intimate and unique connection with the people I play with,” senior Evan Stitley says. “It’s a way of communicating without words. It’s helped me listen more to the group and play for the music instead of for myself.”

Jazz is considered America’s first true musical art form. It was born right here in America, and Chicago played a huge part in developing it. Music such as rock n roll, R&B, hip-hop, pop and Motown wouldn’t be possible if it wasn’t for the development of jazz.

“Jazz is such an expressive genre, so it gives players a lot of freedom in ways you can’t get from other genres,” Minzenberger says. “The feeling of swinging with your band is fantastic, and you can’t quite mimic it in other types of music.”