Attending the Bob Collymore International Jazz Festival School Show was nothing short of a transformative experience for us as young musicians. Receiving the invitation, fresh off the excitement of our school musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, felt like a reward for the effort and passion we’ve poured into music over the years. The news awakened our artistic spirits and filled us with anticipation — a chance to witness jazz legends live, including the world-renowned Wynton Marsalis, was an opportunity beyond imagination.
A World of Musical Wonder
From the moment we arrived at the Misumi Gardens, we could sense that we were stepping into a world where creativity thrived. The vibrant setting — from the crafted instrument displays to the gentle melodies floating through the air — promised an unforgettable experience. It felt like a shift from the ordinary into a realm where music speaks every language and bridges every culture.
Unforgettable Performances
Every performance at the festival was electric, but a few moments stood out vividly. The Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra’s rendition of The Blues Walk filled the venue with soulful rhythms that seemed to echo through our hearts. The solo saxophone by Sherman Irby, backed by Marsalis’ powerful trumpet section, was a masterclass in emotion and precision. Another highlight was their moving performance of Malaika, a beloved Kenyan classic, which beautifully blended global jazz artistry with local heritage — a moment that filled us with pride.
We were also inspired by the performance from Ghetto Classics, a group of young Kenyan musicians whose energy and passion reminded us that greatness can emerge from any corner when talent meets opportunity.
Learning from the Masters
As aspiring instrumentalists, we were privileged to interact with some of the artists. Meeting Alexa Tarantino, a talented flutist and saxophonist, offered valuable lessons in dedication and consistency. Her words — that mastery comes through practice and muscle memory — reignited our determination to keep improving every day.
We also had the incredible chance to meet Abdias, a tenor saxophonist from the New Orleans band, who taught us about circular breathing — an advanced wind technique for maintaining continuous sound. His encouragement to “practice daily and never give up” left a lasting impression.
Lessons in Jazz and Life
Through every performance and conversation, we learned that jazz is more than music — it’s a language of emotion, history, and unity. Its roots, stretching from New Orleans and influenced by African rhythms and blues, tell stories of resilience and community. Wynton Marsalis’ reflections deepened this understanding. He spoke about how music brings people together, builds culture, and transforms even grief into joy.
“When the Saints Go Marching In,” he said, “isn’t just a song — it’s a way of life,” reminding us that through music, humanity celebrates hope and continuity.
A Lasting Impact
The Bob Collymore International Jazz Festival School Show changed how we view music and creativity. It reminded us that music is not just sound — it’s a story, a language, and a bridge between souls. It showed us that creativity knows no limits and that passion, discipline, and hard work are the keys to excellence. The experience strengthened our resolve to continue growing as musicians — not just to play notes, but to tell stories that connect hearts.
A Message to Fellow Students
To all students: never let opportunities like this pass you by. Events like these expand your horizons, nurture your creativity, and help you grow holistically — in line with the IB mission of developing well-rounded learners. Each experience is a step toward becoming the best version of yourself, both as an artist and as a person.
In One Sentence
It was a day where music illuminated our inspiration and passion — an unforgettable symphony of learning, connection, and joy.
