University High School’s “Jazz Extravaganza” took place on Thursday, April 23, 2026. The concert featured multiple UHS jazz groups with varying levels of experience and highlighted students’ work, dedication and improvement this school year. As the conclusion of the UHS Jazz Program’s year, the performance held great significance for the musicians. Overall, “Jazz Extravaganza” was a great night with standout performances and a unique atmosphere. 

One of the most notable parts of the concert was each band’s distinct sound. Every group performed with confidence and energy, making the show very enjoyable. The concert was set up like a real-life jazz club, making the event’s mood uniquely personal and more intimate than other school concerts. The relaxing environment and access to food created an immersive and comfortable experience. 

“Overall, ‘[Jazz] Extravaganza’ went great, all the bands sounded amazing, and I was especially excited to hear my friend singing alongside Jazz III,” sophomore Tillie Lerner said. “As the last event of the year, ‘Jazz Extravaganza’ is highly anticipated by everyone in the instrumental music program, as it is the culmination of all the work the jazz bands put into the season.”

As the year comes to an end, every student performer poured their hard work and effort into “Jazz Extravaganza” to make it a memorable show for both the audience and those involved. Seniors who were performing with the UHS jazz band for the last time also had the opportunity to showcase their skills.

“Although it is bittersweet that it was the last time we will all play together as a big band, I’m still extremely happy with how the concert went,” junior Dominic Huang said. “The charts sounded great, and every solo that night was awesome. I’m so proud to be part of such a high-achieving band and to put ourselves out there in presenting what means so much to me, and most important of all, I was able to have such a fun time performing.” 

In addition to the UHS performances, Kevin Homma, the music teacher at Rancho San Joaquin Middle School, also presented with a middle school jazz group. The younger musicians gave the audience a window into the future of the music program, and their inclusion made the concert feel more complete and connected across the varying experience levels among different jazz groups. 

Overall, “Jazz Extravaganza” was a great and memorable way to end the school year. Through their performances, students demonstrated their talent and hard work. While it marked the end of the 2025-2026 season, it also highlighted the program’s success and showcased the work every student put in.