Post Card

Jazzin' It Up... Disney Style

Disney Jazz Celebration, Walt Disney World, Florida, February 2009

By Patrick Towey - Senior, St. Joseph's Collegiate Institute, Buffalo, New York

There could not have been a more magical place for the St. Joseph's Collegiate Institute Jazz Lab Band to take its annual tour trip than to Walt Disney World, Florida. After participating in Festival Disney in 2007, we couldn't wait to return for more fun. But what really attracted us this year was the opportunity to perform in the first Disney Jazz Celebration.

Between playing onstage for nationally recognized jazz educators and working with renowned jazz artists, the Jazz Celebration was a hugely rewarding experience. Being a brass player, it was an honor for me, among many other students, to work with legendary jazz trombonist Jiggs Whigham. The explosive concert given on the opening night of the festival by Arturo Sandoval was another integral part in making our trip a great one.

Having been to Disney World before, we already knew that the resort had a lot more to offer as well. Taking in its rides, shows, cuisine, nightlife, and other attractions, we could see why this is the happiest place on Earth. In the time that we spent together, we were able to strengthen the bonds of friendship between us in the inspiring atmosphere that only Disney could provide. Our experience at Walt Disney World this past year will be remembered by all the St. Joe's Jazz Lab Band members for many years to come.