This year is the 40th anniversary of the San Diego festival, which is presented by the America’s Finest City Dixieland Jazz Society. The jazz band at Mission Bay has been performing at this festival for over three decades. More than 20 years ago, JP Balmat made his debut in the same festival, playing with Mission Bay High School. He is now the music teacher at his alma mater, and directs the MBHS ensembles.
During the festival, both MBHS ensembles performed for packed crowds. A festival favorite, professional clarinetist Dave Bennett, joined the Preservationists for their last show. This performance was standing room only and was followed by a gracious standing ovation from concertgoers.
The Preservationists are known throughout the country as one of the finest youth traditional jazz bands. In April of 2020 they will be taking their music to New Orleans to perform and study with local musicians and bands including the Preservation Hall Jazz Band. To raise funds for this trip, the Preservationists will be putting on a fundraising concert on January 15th at the Pacific Beach Woman’s Club. More information and tickets please visit www.missionbaymusic.com.
Originally published in the VAPA Newsletter.
