The schedule has been released of bands competing at the Iowa Jazz Championships, highlighted locally by two ensembles from Pella High School.

At the South Central Iowa Band Master’s Association Jazz Festival, Pella Jazz I and the Pella Jazz Orchestra both qualified for the Iowa Jazz Championships. It’s the first time in school history two bands will compete among the best in Class 3A at the same championship event after they placed 1st and 2nd in Winterset–earning both ensembles automatic qualifying spots.

Pella is considered one of the most accomplished jazz programs in state history — since 1979, the school has earned 18 1st place victories at the annual Iowa Jazz Championships. The past two years’ events were canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and Pella Jazz I remains the defending Class 3A champions after winning in 2019

Both Pella bands will perform on Tuesday, April 5th at Iowa State University in Ames. Pella Jazz Orchestra opens at 8:30 a.m. and Pella Jazz I starts at 2:15 p.m.