Shorewood High School Jazz 1 is excited and honored to announce their selection as a finalist for the 31st Essentially Ellington Festival in New York City! Essentially Ellington is considered the most prestigious high school competition of its kind in the country. Shorewood is one of the 20 schools from across the country that will perform at Lincoln Center this April. Under the direction of Dan Baker, Shorewood is making their first appearance at the festival since the 2000s. Shorewood was previously an Essentially Ellington finalist in 2000, 2001, 2005, and 2008.

Dan Baker is a local graduate of the Shoreline School District. He received degrees in Music Performance and Music Education from Central Washington University where he studied with professor Larry Gookin (wind ensemble) and professor Chris Bruya (jazz band). In addition to running the band, jazz band, marching band, and drumline at Shorewood, Baker continues to perform music with several local groups, including Seattle Wind Symphony, PH Factor Big Band, Sounders FC Sound Wave, and more.

This Shorewood Jazz Band features many talented student musicians. Bass player, Marcus Torzillo, and piano player, Oscar Clingenpeel, were both selected for the 2026 Washington All State Jazz Band. Shorewood’s jazz program is been building on their success from last year when Jazz 1 and Jazz 2 finished as finalists at several regional jazz competitions, including the Newport Jazz Festival where they won the sweepstakes award. These students are thrilled to perform at Jazz Alley and share the stage with guest artist and local legend, Greta Matassa!