On December 10th, the Century Middle School Comet Jazz Ensemble took the stage at 89.3 KUVO during Colorado Gives Day. Alongside two other remarkable groups - the Colorado State University Combo 1 and the Colorado Conservatory for the Jazz Arts - they came together to make a significant impact. Their collective efforts helped raise nearly $38,000, a sum dedicated to supporting KUVO and its mission of bringing jazz to Colorado while also providing a platform for young performers through the High School/Collegiate series. The Century Comet Jazz Ensemble, under the direction of Jared Crump-Bertram, boasted an impressive 29 performers, making it the largest group to grace KUVO's recording studio.

Special Thanks and the ELEVATE Focus Area

We extend our special thanks to the Century Middle School community for submitting this outstanding Five Star Story. This story vividly showcases our ELEVATE Focus Area: Outside-the-Classroom Learning. It emphasizes how the district offers students a plethora of learning opportunities beyond the traditional classroom, opening up various pathways to success. Students are able to explore and engage in activities that enhance their musical talents and broaden their horizons.The performance by the Century Middle School Comet Jazz Ensemble was a testament to the power of outside-the-classroom learning. It demonstrated that through such experiences, students can develop not only their musical skills but also important life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and self-expression. These skills are essential for their future success in any field.The collaboration between the three groups was a harmonious blend of different musical styles and talents. Each group brought their unique flavor to the stage, creating a truly unforgettable musical experience. The Colorado State University Combo 1 and the Colorado Conservatory for the Jazz Arts added their expertise and energy, enhancing the overall performance.The large number of performers in the Century Comet Jazz Ensemble allowed for a rich and diverse sound. The ensemble was able to explore different musical arrangements and techniques, showcasing the versatility and creativity of the students. Their performance was a true reflection of their hard work and dedication.Watching the entire performance is a must. It offers a glimpse into the world of jazz and the passion of these young performers. The link to watch the performance is https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T-y8AyneEC4&t=668s. It is a testament to the talent and potential of the students and a reminder of the importance of supporting arts education.In conclusion, the Century Middle School Comet Jazz Ensemble's live performance on Colorado Gives Day was a remarkable event that highlighted the power of outside-the-classroom learning. It demonstrated the impact that music can have on students and the community. Through their performance, they inspired others and showed that with dedication and hard work, anything is possible.