The 2025 SCBDA All-State Jazz Band Clinic will be on the campus of Newberry College on February 27 – March 1, 2025.
2025 South Carolina All-State Jazz Bands
| South Carolina All-State Jazz Bands Chairman: Ronnie Ward
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Auditions: January 25, 2025 @ Lexington High School |
Clinic: February 27 – March 1, 2025 @ Newberry College |
2025 All-State Jazz Band Clinicians
Michele Fernández is a published composer/arranger, active clinician/guest conductor, educator and performer, as well as a member of Phi Beta Mu (Omega Chapter). Her works for both Jazz and Wind Ensemble are represented by various publishers including Hal Leonard, Excelcia, Doug Beach/Kendor and Murphy Music Press, Print MS, as well as her own company Michele Fernández/GiraSoul Music, and have been performed (as well as clinics presented) at Midwest, CBDNA, JEN, IAJE, various MEA’s All-State/Regional bands. Most recently, Michele’s composition, “Of Endless Miles and Empty Rafts,” was the recipient of the 2023 CBDNA Composition Award.
Michele serves ensembles of all ages across the country through virtual or in-person clinics and Artist-in-Residence events. She recently retired from teaching after 30 years, where her Miami HS ensembles earned top honors and gained international acclaim despite being a Title One school with minimal resources. Her groups have been selected for appearances at the Midwest Clinic (Chicago ’93 & ’98), IAJE (Boston ’94, NY ’97), Montreux Jazz Fest (Switzerland ’96), FMEA and national publications. Michele has featured on “CBS Sunday Morning”, Band Director’s Guide and Downbeat Magazine. She has also taught SPED, ESOL, HS English and Chemistry. Before focusing on writing, she served as an oboist in the Miami area, and spent several years as a rhythm section member of a busy local Afro-Latin/Jazz ensemble. As a composer/clinician: Michele views writing and clinics as an opportunity to discuss important aspects of life, while also focusing on the art form of performance, and in so doing, to help others gain more self-confidence and an increased awareness of compassion for others that will lead to success in all areas of life.
Audition Resources
Click Here to view the All-State Jazz Ensemble audition information.
Click Here to view the All-State Jazz Combo audition information.
Click Here to view instructional guides for Rhythm Section instruments.
Please contact Ronnie Ward for more information regarding the SCBDA All-State Jazz events.