Garden Variety

As Louis Armstrong once said, if you have to ask what jazz is, you’ll never know. With its improvisational flair and rhythmic complexity, jazz music has long captivated musicians and audiences alike. And apparently West Orange teenagers as well.

For Asher, Angelo, Christian, Dylan, and Kaiden, jazz isn’t just music; it’s a way of life, a rebellion against the mainstream cacophony that dominates their peers’ playlists. They find solace in the intricate improvisations of Thelonious Monk and the sultry vocals of Billie Holiday, their spirits soaring with each blistering trumpet solo and mournful piano ballad. These young virtuosos, united by their melomania for jazz, share their experiences, aspirations, and the transformative power of music. Together, their individual talents intertwine to create magic on stage.

Kaiden Hunter found his calling in the deep resonance of the bass. “Originally, I picked the tuba, but my band director nudged me toward the bass for jazz band,” he shares with a grin. “And I’ve stuck with it ever since.”

For Angelo Del Oro, the allure of jazz came through family influence. “My cousin’s trumpet performances sparked something in me,” he explains. “From there, I transitioned from the violin to the trumpet.”

Asher Whitman’s musical journey began unexpectedly, with a piano donated to his family. “I started tinkering with it, and the rest is history,” he says.

Dylan Fontenot’s love for jazz blossomed in high school. “I started on euphonium but longed for the trombone,” he recalls. “Joining the jazz band was a game-changer for me.”

Christian Josil, the cadence of the group, expresses, “I come from a musical family, so I decided to pick up drums. I’ve been playing since middle school.”

Their bond transcends the school’s jazz band—they often rendezvous at Pilars, a local hotspot for jazz enthusiasts. “We play just about every week. It’s a place where we can express our true selves,” Asher reflects, emphasizing the joy found in their musical exchanges. Dylan nods. “We’ve formed friendships with seasoned musicians and even connected with professors from UCF,” he shares. “It’s a melting pot of inspiration and learning.”

For these young musicians, the stage is both a playground and a proving ground. “Performing live has boosted our confidence dramatically,” Kaiden says with a smile. “It’s where we push ourselves, make mistakes, and grow.” Dylan laughs, “That’s what jazz is:painted over mistakes.” Jazz, they agree, has left an indelible mark on their musical journey. “It’s the pinnacle of musical expression,” Angelo declares. “It’s subjective—unlike other styles of music, jazz allows for endless interpretation and creativity.” Christian muses, “Jazz is colorful, dirty, unpredictable; there isn’t just one word.” In its unpredictability lies its charisma—a space where each performer can express themselves freely. Consider them a new generation of musical guardians, keeping the flame of jazz burning bright for generations to come.