The steady tap of drumsticks counts the band in. Horns rise. Chords punch. After school in the McCutcheon High School band room, senior vocalist Trinity Gilbert leans into the mic and joins the band in the soulful tune “Don’t Know Why.”

Thanks to a recent grant from the Public Schools Foundation, the McCutcheon Jazz Band is exploring a new dimension this year—partnering with student vocalists to perform side by side with the ensemble.

“Jazz music has always been about collaboration and connection—between instruments, voices, and people,” says Band Director Matt Skiba. “This partnership brings that spirit to life and gives our students a deeper, more authentic understanding of the music’s roots. It’s not just about performing; it’s about honoring the tradition and growing something that could last for years to come.”

Freshman trombonist Cole Madsen agrees. “Having a vocalist sing alongside the band makes it a lot more fun for both the instrumentalists and vocalists,” he says. “And since it’s more fun for everyone involved, I think more people will want to join Jazz Band and could gain a lot from the experience.”

“I am becoming more comfortable, the more I practice with the jazz band,” says Trinity, one of the featured vocalists. “I love singing jazz and learning how to use my voice for this style. I’ve also enjoyed getting to share that experience with peers who love jazz music just as much as I do.” 

The collaboration is one of the highlights students are preparing for as they get ready for Jazz N’ Cakes, McCutcheon’s annual breakfast concert tradition. This year’s setlist includes a variety of styles—from the laid-back elegance of “Portrait of Mahalia Jackson” to the rapid-fire rhythms of “Jazz Police.”

Madsen, who plans to audition for the Indiana Jazz Educators Association's All-State Jazz Ensemble and hopes to join the Purdue Jazz Band after graduation, says performing with a vocalist adds something special.  “It makes the music more expressive,” he said. “You learn to listen more closely, to complement someone else's sound. That’s a big part of what jazz is all about.”

Jazz N Cakes will be held 9 am - noon, April 26 in the McCutcheon Cafeteria.  Tickets are $10 at the door, but available before the event for a discounted price here.