There’s just something special about the sweet, soulful sound of jazz, and both the Antioch and Lakes Community High Schools know it. That’s why the two join forces with select middle schools every year for a special Jazz Night concert. On Thursday, March 20 at six p.m., head over to LCHS to experience a night of some of the best young adult jazz talent around.

The Jazz Choir and Jazz Band of both schools will be performing several selections that evening, for a total of four high school groups. Although the overall theme is jazz, music may range from the classic Frank Sinatra songs to modern jazz tunes such as those by Michael Bublé. One piece that the ACHS Jazz Choir will be performing, “Run To You,” was written by the contemporary a cappella group Pentatonix.

James Novack is a senior at ACHS and he is excited to perform at Jazz Night this March, although sadly it will be his last.

“I absolutely love Jazz Night. It’s the one night a year that D117 gives the jazz groups at both schools a night to strut their stuff! I’ve been a member of our school’s Jazz Choir since Freshman year, and I can honestly say it’s my favorite choir out of them all. What I really like about Jazz Night is that the 8th graders and middle school students also get to perform for a big audience as well! It’s my last Jazz Night this year, so let’s go out with a bang!” said Novack.

Also featured at the concert are Antioch Upper Grade School, Palombi Middle School and Millburn Middle School. It’s very important that musicians of all ages get the chance to perform with and learn from each other. During Jazz Night, this is exactly what happens as the high school bands and choirs play alongside the middle school groups.

This concert is also unique because it is in a casual environment instead of an auditorium. There are tables where the audience can sit and munch on snacks while they listen to the musicians, and sometimes a brave couple will get up and dance to the tunes. And you won’t see any confining choir robes or somber band outfits here–this concert is full of energy and passion.

If you’re at all interested in good music, pleasant company, and sweet treats, make sure to mark the Jazz Night on your calendar. Tickets are sold at the door only. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for students and seniors.