Agoura's jazz bands, essentially excellent

It was with great joy that I read that the Agoura High School Jazz Bands performed so well at the Essentially Ellington Competition in New York this month. My son, who graduated last June, was actively involved in the music program throughout his tenure there and had the good fortune of participating in the same competition twice.

My wife and I both had the good fortune of attending the events and seeing for ourselves what a marvelous experience this was for the musicians.

I congratulate the members of both bands, along with Mr. Mosely and Mr. Bloom. As a credentialed music teacher who taught in the public schools during the 1980s, I have observed these two teachers for years and have the utmost respect for their talents and dedication.

That being said, it has also been my observation that the school's administration has been less than supportive of the music program, at least during the time of my son's attendance. Although I don't have statistical data, the conspicuous absence of administrators at various musical performances was painfully obvious. If one could go back, it would be interesting to compare the frequency with which administrators attended sporting events as compared to musical performances. I never got the feeling that the administration at the school strongly supported the music program, even though for years it has been recognized nationally. This is truly a shame.

The Agoura High School Jazz Bands have truly done the school proud. Let us hope the school will respond in kind.
Robert Sack
Agoura Hills