The Straight 8 Band is a group of middle school, high school, and college students devoted to bettering themselves musically. They meet weekly under the direction of Ray Guzman (Founder & Program Director), S-Ankh Rasa (Music Director), & Zakk Jones (Jazz Camp Music Director for 2020) . With an array of woodwind and brass instrument players, this group isn’t limited to merely ‘high school band’ music; swing, blues, rock, jazz, latin, doo-wop, originals, charts, and even a cappella pieces are all within the range of this band thus far. To hint at the talent within the group, the music is learned with or without music (to add to the challenge of being in the band). Overall this group is highly devoted to becoming better musicians and are sounding better with each rehearsal.
It all began as a family tradition: learning music of yesterday that is seldom appreciated by a younger audience. Ray and his children eventually invited friends from school to join the group (founded in 2014 the first jazz program of its type in the DFW area). One thing has led to another and now the group is playing big band charts, rock and roll, blues, Latin jazz-a variety of oldies in which they prepare arrangements for. In addition, the group has a tradition of making up their own tunes and enjoying a good old fashioned jam session. This is the tradition the band hopes to continue. It is continually growing and the ultimate goal is to provide students an outlet to express music on many different terms.
The name Straight 8 references a Duesenberg inline 8 cylinder engine. At a time (’30s) when most vehicles did not exceed 100 horsepower the Duesenberg Motor Company created an engine that produced 400hp. The vehicle was considered the premier vehicle in its day. This was due to the pride and craftsmanship the builders put into it. Like those craftsmen we want to deliver music on that same level to our audience.
After attending last year’s Master Jazz Camp our daughter was invited to join the band and what a difference it has made! In a school band enviromnent it’s sometimes difficult to receive the type of in-depth instruction and attention that she receives by being part of this band. It has helped her tremendously with her musicianship, music theory and improvisation. Being in the Straight 8 Band and attending the Master Jazz Camp has truly been a blessing for her!
Our son Keaton has participated in Straight 8 band for five years and their summer camps for four. It’s been a tremendous experience for him, both in how much he’s learned and the confidence he’s developped when soloing and sightreading. He has made TMEA All Region Jazz Band since his freshman year and All State since his sophomore year, and I credit a lot of his success to his Straight 8 experience. Ray Guzman, the director, is great at teaching the kids, securing professional instructors and musicians to work with them, and finding venues for them to perform. If you have a kiddo who loves jazz, I highly recommend checking Straight 8 out!