George Stevens Academy’s Music Director Steve Orlofsky is shown with the members of Melodious Thunk (from left) Joey Mitchell, Ian Howell, Duncan Howell, Erika Hipsky, Quinn Stabler, Gabe Hall and Zeke Sacaridiz. The combo earned a No. 2 finish in the recent National Jazz Festival in Philadelphia. GEORGE STEVENS ACADEMY PHOTO
BLUE HILL — Melodious Thunk, one of George Stevens Academy’s jazz ensembles, earlier this month placed second at the inaugural National Jazz Festival in Philadelphia.
The combo, which scored 192 out of a possible 200 points, finished just two points behind an ensemble from Princeton (N.J.) High School in Small Ensemble Division 2. The scores of the division’s remaining groups in the division ranged from 130 to 186 points.
Steve Orlofsky directs the instrumental music program and has taught at GSA for 32 years.
“Excellent group playing, wonderful dynamics,” said judge Matt Davis of Melodious Thunk’s performance of “Strasbourg St. Denis,” composed by Roy Hargrove. The combo also played “Feel” by Jacob Collier and “Two Timers” by Victor Wooten.
Melodious Thunk includes seniors Erika Hipsky on alto saxophone and flute, Duncan Howell on trombone, Ian Howell on baritone saxophone, Joey Mitchell on guitar, Quinn Stabler on bass, junior Zeke Sacaridiz on drums and vocals and sophomore Gabe Hall on trumpet.
Duncan Howell and Sacaridiz were named Outstanding Musicians in their division, two of three musicians to be honored.
Melodious Thunk and other GSA groups were due to compete with ensembles from Brewer, Bucksport, Ellsworth, Mount Desert Island and Shead from Eastport in the Maine Music Educators Association District 6 Instrumental Jazz Festival at George Stevens Academy on Wednesday, Feb. 26. For more info, visit georgestevensacademy.org/jazzfest.