QHS celebrates 21st year of Showcase of Excellence

2 months, 2 weeks ago

The Quincy High School Show Choir and Jazz Band prepare to host show choirs and jazz bands from throughout the area

The stage is set for the 21st Annual Showcase of Excellence!   The Quincy High School Show Choir and Jazz Band prepare to host the amazing talents of show choirs and jazz bands from throughout the tri-states.  More than 2000 students from 30 schools are expected to perform during this unique all-all day competition.

This musical tradition returns to Quincy High School on Saturday, March 9th from 8:00 a.m. until 11:30pm. 

New Details!

An additional venue of Baldwin Auditorium has been added with the following events:

6:30pm – Big River Swing Machine – local jazz enthusiasts will perform

7:30pm (approx) - Announcement of Jazz Showcase Awards

8:00pm (approx) - Adam Larson Jazz Quintet* (world renowned musicians from NYC)

*Includes announcement of the winner of the QHS “Big Blue Raffle”

 

A single admission ticket is good for all events and all venues - $10 for adults and $8 for students.  Visitors may come and go as they please throughout the day, enjoying the jazz bands in the QHS gym, or the show choirs in the QHS Theatre, and evening jazz performances in the Baldwin Auditorium.  Throughout the day, audience members will be able to cast their votes for the People’s Choice awards in both categories. The judges will offer targeted instruction on their performances as well as an overall competition score.

 New this year is a special appearance by the Adam Larson Jazz Quintet from New York City.  These world-renowned musicians will perform for students and the community (at noon and 8:00pm), as well as provide a clinic and master class.

The evening’s finale in the QHS Theatre will feature the show choir awards presentations.   The QHS Show Choir and Jazz Band will perform in exhibition, after working behind the scenes to make the day a success.

Other activities of the day will include the popular show choir fashion show and the karaoke-style solo competition.  There will be jam sessions, improvisation clinics and other workshops offered throughout the day. Food and beverages will be available in the QHS cafeteria.

“Proceeds from this event significantly support the music programs at all grade levels in the Quincy public school system,” said Kathi Dooley, director of music for the Quincy Public Schools.  “We are honored that Showcase has become a premier event that attracts so many talented students, as well as music professors and experts from across the country.”

 This event would not be possible without the hard work of the many volunteers, the Friends of the Performing Arts, and the support of the community.  Volunteers and donations are welcome.  More information is available by calling 217-224-3774.