The Westlake Girls Jazz Band is a new music group formed this year by director Jono Howan in order to introduce Westlake Girls students to the genre and build their confidence in learning how to solo.

On 17 June they held a weekend workshop in the music department which was a fantastic success. Students had the chance to develop their sound and strengthen relationships through games and competitions. They were also lucky enough to have Paul Norman step in to give a tutorial on Jazz articulation and improvisational vocabulary. Paul worked around each section of the instrumental sections, giving each student personalised and invaluable tips and insights to get the most out of their sound. We finished with a round of improvised solos around the room where every student took a solo (some for the first time on their instrument).

We are very pleased with the progress these students are making and are looking forward to showcasing what they have been working on next term at our Westlake Instrumental Gala (4th August) and the KBB festival (9 August). We hope to see you there!