Newton High School Jazz Ensemble 1 continues its legacy by being selected again to perform at the Kansas Music Educators Association (KMEA) In-Service Workshop (ISW) on Saturday, March 1 at Century II.

NHS boasts a comprehensive jazz program, with two big bands that rehearse during the school day, in addition to student-led combos and jam sessions. More than half of the students enrolled in jazz courses pursue private lessons, a reflection of their dedication to the craft.

Jazz Ensemble 1 consists of select students chosen through rigorous auditions using the same material as the Kansas All-State Jazz Band selections. Participation in a jazz ensemble requires students to be concurrently enrolled in Band or Orchestra, ensuring a well-rounded musical education. The group performs music typically played by college and university-level groups.

The jazz program flourished for decades under the leadership of Keith Woolery, who directed Jazz Ensemble 1 from 1985 until his retirement in 2018.

Current director, Greg Bergman, is in his 24th year at NHS and 31st year of teaching, taking over the ensemble since Woolery’s retirement and continuing to uphold and expand its legacy of excellence. 

Under Bergman’s direction, Jazz Ensemble 1 has consistently earned Division 1 "Outstanding" ratings at jazz festivals across the state, including competitions at McPherson College, Friends University, Hutchinson Community College, Wichita State University, and the Kansas Bandmasters Association (KBA) Jazz Championships. 

NHS won 1st place in the 5A Division at the KBA State Jazz Championship in 2023 and secured 2nd place in 2024. They will compete again on March 6, 2025.

Each year, the KMEA hosts its ISW, bringing together hundreds of music educators and students for performances, clinics, and workshops. Schools and professional ensembles submit audition recordings in May, which are then blindly evaluated by panels of music educators. Only a select few high school jazz bands are chosen to perform at the convention, with groups restricted from appearing more than once every two years.

NHS Jazz Ensemble 1 has been honored with selection for the KMEA ISW in 2021, 2023, and now again in 2025. 

Beyond the music itself, Bergman takes the greatest pride in the character and professionalism displayed by NHS students. 

“I hope that I model and share with NHS students my excitement and passion for music and the importance of one's continued growth. However, I am most proud of the way our NHS students conduct themselves. These are fantastic young people who will continue doing great things in the future,” Bergman said.

NHS Jazz Ensemble I is busy at work preparing for their KMEA performance on March 1, 2025.