Essentially ellington 2025

The Ann Arbor Huron High School Rhythm Rat Jazz Orchestra was recently selected as one of only 30 ensembles worldwide to compete in the 30th annual Essentially Ellington High School Jazz Band Competition Festival on May 7-11, 2025, at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City. This is the first time that the Huron Jazz Orchestra has been awarded this prestigious distinction and only the third program in the state of Michigan selected to participate in the National Essentially Ellington Competition over its 30-year span.

The annual Essentially Ellington High School Jazz Band Competition Festival is considered by many to be the most prestigious competition for high school jazz ensembles. It brings musicians from across the world to Jazz at Lincoln Center to spend several days immersed in workshops, jam sessions, rehearsals, and performances. One of the most innovative education events in the world, the Essentially Ellington program and resources for students and band directors are free of charge and aim to elevate musicianship, broaden perspectives, and inspire performance through the music of jazz icon, Duke Ellington.
The Huron students have worked so hard and are thrilled to have achieved this estimable honor. While the festival is free to attend, we need to cover travel and lodging expenses. We are asking for monetary support from our community to assist with these expenses. 100% of your donation will go towards travel and accommodations and is tax deductible. (Donations can be made by check – made out to “Huron Music Association” with “Jazz Band NYC Trip” in the memo line, or via the fundraising site, https://givebutter.com/HuronJazz25 or the QR code above)

​Thank you in advance for supporting our school’s music program and for recognizing the great educational benefit of this exceptional opportunity in New York City. If you have any questions or would like additional information about this award or your donation, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Robert Ash at [email protected].