The Eight Grade Jazz Band and Late Night Jazz Ensemble posed at Great Adventure with their first place trophies. The Eighth Grade Band, under the direction of Mrs. Martha Boonshaft, and the Late Night Jazz Ensemble, under the direction of Mrs. Jennifer Iovino, received high marks at the 2009 Music in the Parks Competition held at New Jersey's Six Flags Great Adventure Theme Park in early May. The Band performed two works from their concert entitled, "Fiesta De Los Bravos" and "Black Granite II." They received a superior rating from the judges and were awarded the first place trophy.

The Late Night Jazz Ensemble, completing their first year as a group, also took first place. Sixth grade pianist, Andrew Andron, a talented young musician who has jammed with legendary greats Les Paul and Barry Harris, was awarded a special medal of achievement as "Best Jazz Soloist." "It was really exciting," commented Andrew, "because I didn't think I would win!"

After their winning performances, the students spent the remainder of the day enjoying the rides and events at the theme park.

Middle school music teachers, Mrs. Martha Boonshaft (left - Eighth Grade Band) and Mrs. Jennifer Iovino (Late Night Jazz Ensemble) joined with sixth-grader Andre Andron (Best Jazz Soloist) to display their awards after the 2009 Music in the Parks Competition. Congratulations to Mrs. Boonshaft, Mrs. Iovino, the Eight Grade Band, Late Night Jazz Ensemble, and pianist Andrew Andron for your musical sweep at the 2009 Music in the Parks Competition!

A sixth grader at Garden City Middle School and member of the Late Night Jazz Ensemble, Andrew Andron had the opportunity to perform with legendary guitarist Les Paul in NYC last year.