Jacob Weiss, a bass trombonist in the Bainbridge High School Jazz Band, was named an outstanding festival soloist at the recent 30th annual Bellevue High School Jazz Festival. The Bainbridge Jazz Band is directed by Lillian Garcia.

Nearly 50 middle school, junior high and high school jazz bands from throughout the Pacific Northwest participated in the competition May 4-5.

“Thirty years ago, renowned drummer Buddy Rich agreed to play at Bellevue High School for $5,000, so this jazz festival was started as a way to cover his expense and for students to compete, learn and listen to professional musicians,” Edd George, Bellevue High School director of bands, told those attending.

“We’re proud to have had this event continue annually and evolve into one of the largest school jazz festivals. We appreciate the involvement of the students, their families, the schools and the community to ensure jazz continues to thrive as an educational experience.”