Who We Are
The Alum Rock Jazz Program was started in 1973 by music teachers Bill Nicolosi, Jerry Saxon, Ted Powell & Phyllis Grant with the help of then Mathson Principal Bob Bird and Community School Director Ed Villagran.
The Band has performed for literally tens of thousands of people. The musicians are 5th-8th grade Alum Rock students who competitively audition each fall for the instrumental and vocal spots in the group. The Band performs a dozen times during the school year, and its repertoire includes big-band jazz, classic rock, show tunes and popular songs.
In 1997, the alumni/staff band was formed as a new branch of the Jazz Program. This group is largely made up of professional level alumni musicians augmented by some of the Alum Rock staff members. Vocal jazz is also currently a part of the Program.
The Alum Rock Jazz Program is a tribute to the education provided by Alum Rock District Music Program. It continues to succeed due to exceptional student musicians, excellent teaching, Alum Rock School District support, and several generous community sponsors, as well as a strong partnership with San José Jazz.