![US Jazz Band listening to Totem Cave talk about jazz music]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1758569020/saintandrewsnet/vc2bcn4oqc08txrfycnz/aaa-9.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1758569020/saintandrewsnet/vc2bcn4oqc08txrfycnz/aaa-9.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1758569020/saintandrewsnet/vc2bcn4oqc08txrfycnz/aaa-9.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1758569020/saintandrewsnet/vc2bcn4oqc08txrfycnz/aaa-9.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1758569020/saintandrewsnet/vc2bcn4oqc08txrfycnz/aaa-9.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1758569020/saintandrewsnet/vc2bcn4oqc08txrfycnz/aaa-9.jpg","width":2200}])
On Friday, September 19, the SA Upper School Jazz Band had the unique opportunity to participate in a master class with the jazz fusion group Totem Cave. The five-member ensemble, made up of musicians originally from Peru and South Florida, has recorded around 20 original works and is known for blending diverse musical traditions.
During the session, Totem Cave introduced students to an Afro-Peruvian rhythm in 12/8, showing how it could be incorporated into Blue Bossa, a piece the jazz band had been rehearsing. This allowed students to experience the contrasting feels of Bossa Nova and Festejo rhythms. The musicians played side by side with the students, guiding them through the process of adapting to the new groove. The band members were fully engaged, excited, and quick to apply their learning to create a fresh interpretation of Blue Bossa.
The master class was such a success that the Jazz Band was invited to perform alongside Totem Cave during the Upper School Assembly. Together, they opened the program before Totem Cave performed three of their own original pieces.
In addition, Totem Cave worked with the Middle School Concert Band in a Q&A session. The alto saxophonist and percussionist from the group performed one of their compositions, giving students a taste of the group’s sound and creative process. The middle schoolers responded enthusiastically, asking thoughtful questions and gaining insight into the life of a professional musician.
The collaboration left a lasting impression on both ensembles, inspiring students and broadening their musical horizons.