The 2012 CSUN Jazz ‘A’ Band will be playing the prestigious Monterey Jazz Fest.

Nowadays, it seems that the heat around CSUN’s campus isn’t emanating from the sun, but rather the Mike Curb College of Arts, Media, and Communication—where the university’s music department resides. That’s because the college’s Jazz “A” Band is on a tear, performing in such music fests as the Newbury Park Jazz Festival, Reno Jazz Festival and the California Alliance for Jazz State Championships. Now they’re ready to perform at the Monterey Jazz Festival, one of the biggest musical events in the world.

Led by CSUN music professor John Daversa, the Jazz “A” Band is looking forward to (again) making its horns blow where legends like Duke Ellington and Dizzy Gillespie built their now-household names. This time, however, it’s up to Matadors like JoJo Ramirez, Jacob Scesney and Austin Yancey to make their marks in the midst of other fabulous jazz musicians.

“To say that it is an honor to participate is an understatement,” said Daversa. “For these students, it is an experience none will ever forget. And for Cal State Northridge, it’s an opportunity to share on a large stage, what a special program we have here at CSUN.”

For more: CSUN’s Jazz Band Is Heading to the Monterey Jazz Festival [CSUN Media Releases]

Jazz “A” Band, Mike Curb College of Arts Media and Communication, Monterey Jazz Festival