Last week, the South Whidbey High School Jazz Ensemble earned first place in the 1A Division at the Clark College Jazz Festival in Vancouver, Washington. For members of the class of 2026, the win marks an extraordinary four-year winning streak, with the ensemble placing first every year of their high school careers.

In addition to the top overall award, the ensemble’s trumpet and trombone sections each received Best Section Honors. Individual awards were also presented to Liam Watkins (senior, saxophone) and Luci Helms (sophomore, drums), who were recognized as Most Outstanding Performers.

Under the direction of Catherine Ballestrasse (known to students as “Ms. B”), the ensemble performed a challenging and stylistically diverse program, including the following: “Reverie” by Claude Debussy, arranged by Melba Liston; “Queen Bee” by Sammy Nestico; and “Annie’s Dance” by Edvard Grieg, arranged by Melba Liston.

This year’s victory was especially meaningful for Ballestrasse, who is in her first year as the district’s band director. A 2016 graduate of South Whidbey High School, she won first place at the Clark College Jazz Festival as a student musician.

“Returning to the Clark College Jazz Festival was a very special moment for me,” Ballestrasse said. “Ten years ago, I was part of the jazz ensemble’s very first trip to this festival and helped secure the win. Though I serve a different role in the ensemble now, the excitement of competing and winning is all the same.”

The 62nd Annual Clark College Jazz Festival, held on the Clark College campus, brings together more than 60 schools from Washington and Oregon each year. During the day, ensembles perform for a distinguished panel of adjudicators made up of renowned jazz educators and performers. Selected groups earn the opportunity to return for the evening finals, where placements of first, second and third are awarded.

In addition to performances, students participate in educational clinics with master jazz educators. This year, students also received a master clinic from internationally renowned vibraphonist Stefan Harris, focusing on improvisation and musical expression. The Clark College Jazz bands performed for the students as part of the evening program.

“It’s always fantastic and inspiring to hear the pros and college bands, it makes me want to continue doing music in college,” senior Olin Nelson said. “Its also fun to win this competition.”

Preparation for the festival involves many hours of rehearsal beyond the regular school day. Sectionals meet before school, during lunch and after school to refine ensemble precision.

“This award reflects the countless hours these students spend practicing and working together,” parent Kai Nelson said. “It’s been an honor to experience this journey with the band over the last four years.” Traveling to Vancouver, a 4-5 hour trip each way, is supported by dedicated parent volunteers.

“I’m incredibly proud of my students for not only this past weekend, but for the entire school year,” Ballestrasse said. “Despite transitioning from one director to another, they have shown devotion, flexibility and trust. They care deeply about this ensemble and want it to be the best it can be.”

Students audition to join the South Whidbey High School Jazz Ensemble, an elective course that fulfills required arts credits while demanding significant commitment. Many students balance jazz ensemble with wind ensemble participation, athletics, clubs, part-time jobs and community leadership roles.

“Being a music student in the South Whidbey school music program offers so many opportunities,” parent Jacque King said. “I’ve seen my daughter grow not only as a musician, but as a teammate and problem-solver.”

Many ensemble members began their jazz education earlier, participating in the South Whidbey Middle School Jazz Band, which rehearses before school three days a week. Ballestrasse encourages younger students interested in jazz to start early by listening to jazz greats, learning standards, forming small combos and seeking private instruction. Local community musicians play an important role in supporting students’ growth.

South Whidbey schools have participated in the Clark College Jazz Festival since 2015, with a consistent record of excellence under former director Chris Harshman. Now, under Ballestrasse’s leadership, the ensemble continues that tradition of achievement.

Community members are invited to support the students at their annual Swing Into Spring Big Band Dance on Saturday, April 25, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Freeland, as well as the end-of-year Jazz Night on Wednesday, May 20 at the Whidbey Island Center for the Arts.

South Whidbey School District remains committed to arts education. The South Whidbey Performing Arts Boosters provides fundraising opportunities and community support helping students travel, compete, repair instruments, purchase sheet music, provide scholarships and experience high-level musical opportunities. As emphasized throughout the festival, jazz is shaped by the people, experiences and communities surrounding it, and for South Whidbey’s students, that collaboration continues to create something truly special.

Photo provided. Liam Watkins and Luci Helms receives Outstanding Performance Awards.

Photo provided. The 2025-2026 South Whidbey High School Jazz Trombone Section Honors at Clark College Jazz Festival.

Photo provided. The 2025-2026 South Whidbey High School Jazz Ensemble celebrate their win at Clark College Jazz Festival.

Photo provided. The 2025-2026 South Whidbey High School Jazz Trumpet Section Honors at Clark College Jazz Festival.