On January 8^th, Andy Nevala’s Jazz Ensemble I traveled to New Orleans to perform at the annual JEN Conference. The Jazz Education Network Conference features some of the most talented jazz musicians in the country. 

Two of Nevala’s students, Caleb Williams, a senior from Auburn, AL, and Jakobe Henry, a senior from Texas, were excited to participate at such a prestigious conference. 

What instrument do you play?

Caleb: I play trumpet.

Jakobe: Trumpet. 

What is your major? 

Caleb: Emergency Management.

Jakobe: Music Education.

Why do you love playing Jazz music?

Caleb: I love playing jazz because there is so much more freedom for expression in the music. Since a lot of the chords are more complex than in classical music, the ability to make the music your own is far more enjoyable. 

Jakobe: Jazz music allows you to express yourself like no other genre of music can.

Who is your favorite Jazz musician?

Caleb: My favorite jazz musician is Wynton Marsalis. Wynton is probably the best trumpet player on the planet and is as good a trumpet soloist as there is.

Jakobe: Wynton Marsalis.

What was the best thing you ate in New Orleans?

Caleb: By far, it was Cajun shrimp pasta at a local joint that Drew Brees owns. Oh, and beignets at Café Du Monde.

Jakobe: Shrimp Po’ Boy.

What was the coolest thing you saw in New Orleans? 

Caleb: The French Quarter. There’s so many different types of things to do and the street performers are spectacular. 

Jakobe: The U.S. Navy Band Commodores playing through their set. Jon Faddis was a guest artist and played some of the highest notes I have ever heard on trumpet during one the songs. 

What was your experience performing at the conference? 

Caleb: Performing at JEN is the most important performance I’ve ever done. While I’ve done some other performances with more people in attendance, this is probably the most impactful performance I’ve ever been a part of. 

Jakobe: It was great! One of the best parts was being able to play with guest artists including Ashlin Parker! 

Did you learn anything new at the conference?

Caleb: Getting to hear so many great artists play was amazing. Some of the best jazz trumpet players were there. It was awesome. 

Jakobe: I learned that I need to practice a lot more. I love getting the opportunity to hear people perform at such a high level and it pushes me to elevate my performance.