Calabasas High School’s wind ensemble, orchestra, and jazz band took a five-day trip to New Orleans this past week. During the trip, they experienced a mix of musical performances, cultural activities, and local attractions.
The trip began with a 4 a.m. departure from Calabasas High School with a flight to New Orleans, accompanied by CHS music teacher Aaron Kohen. Upon arrival, the students had lunch at St. Roch Market, which offered many local food options. After that, everyone had an inside look at the artistry behind the city’s famous parade balloons.
The department had no official competitions in the city but informally performed in restaurants and markets.
“We performed outdoors, kind of, in the central market type of area where there’s lots of street performers and artists and things like that,” said Kohen.
The band participated in an exchange program with Haynes Academy, during which they had joint warm-ups and advanced musical programs. They also visited the National WW2 Museum, where students experienced a 4D presentation and learned history, followed by a group dinner at Central City BBQ.
“We explored jazz history from New Orleans,” said Sophomore and member of CHS’s jazz band, Andrew Duncan Jr.
Freshman and member of Calabasas’s wind ensemble, Jordan Faulk, shared his highlight of the trip.
“Being able to explore the French Quarter with no bounds,” said Faulk.
The music department also took a trip to Loyola University, where they participated in clinics and workshops with professors. Lastly, there was the long wait for the Natchez Steamboat Dinner Jazz Cruise. This cruise included food, music, and a fun boat ride along the Mississippi.
The music department travels to a new place about every other year. Last year, they traveled to Seattle.
“The trip changes every year,” said Sophomore and member of CHS’s jazz band, Andrew Duncan Jr.
This trip was an experience for all students who attended. The purpose of this trip was to create a bonding experience for the kids they will never forget.
