PHOTOS: THE KING'S ACADEMY NIGHT OF JAZZ Features Peter Cincotti

There are performances that entertain, and then there are performances that remind you why live music matters in the first place. This year’s Night of Jazz at The King’s Academy firmly belonged in the latter category, an evening brimming with energy, artistry, and a palpable sense of joy, all elevated by the electrifying presence of Peter Cincotti.

From the moment the band launched into Strike Up the Band, it was clear the night would be something special. The ensemble played with confidence and polish, immediately setting a tone of sophistication and swing. That momentum carried seamlessly into Isn’t She Lovely, where standout solos by William Smith on trumpet and the dynamic saxophone pairing of Stephen Boylan and Martin Agudelo showcased both technical command and expressive phrasing.

The first half of the program highlighted the depth and versatility of the student musicians. Madison Anderer brought warmth and charm to Blue Moon, while McKenna Taylor’s performance of Dreamer offered a contrasting, more introspective moment. The New Orleans inspired Mudbug Strut and When the Saints Go Marching In became a celebratory showcase, featuring an impressive parade of soloists, each one stepping forward with confidence, personality, and a clear understanding of the style.

Gabriella Raines then took center stage on Route 66, delivering a performance full of charisma and vocal control, before Martin Agudelo’s expressive tenor saxophone brought a rich, soaring quality to Europa that brought the house down.

Then came the moment the audience had been anticipating.

When Peter Cincotti joined the ensemble, the show transformed into a truly unforgettable professional caliber experience. His opening number, How High the Moon, immediately revealed his signature blend of virtuosic piano playing and effortless vocal style. What made the collaboration remarkable was not just his performance, but how seamlessly he integrated with the students, inviting them into the music rather than simply performing alongside them.

The Entertainer and Ain’t Misbehavin’ highlighted this spirit of collaboration, with student soloists rising to the occasion and matching Cincotti’s energy. Stephen Boylan’s alto saxophone solos were particularly compelling. The real stars of the night were the rhythm section, anchored by 8th grader Zach Horne on drums, freshman Brody Storin on bass, and junior Breck Dorow on keyboard. They played with a level of maturity and precision well beyond their years that created a deeply in the pocket groove for the entire show.

Gabriella Raines returned to the microphone for Alright, Okay, You Win, delivering a standout performance alongside Cincotti with poise and personality that showed why she is a rising star and one to watch. The chemistry between performers, student and professional alike, felt natural and unforced, a testament to both preparation and trust.

As the set progressed through Sway, Cinderella Beautiful, and the high energy Mambo Italiano, the audience was fully engaged, responding to every musical moment with enthusiasm. A highlight of Mambo Italiano was the dynamic dueling trumpet solos by William Smith and Rett Wedding, whose back and forth exchange brought an extra level of excitement and showmanship to an already electrifying performance. By the time the ensemble reached New York State of Mind, the evening had built to a powerful and emotional conclusion, featuring a final round of standout solos by Gabriella Raines on alto sax, William Smith on trumpet, and Liam Shane on tenor sax that encapsulated the night’s spirit of excellence and collaboration.

What made this Night of Jazz truly exceptional was not just the guest artist, though Peter Cincotti undeniably brought star power and artistry of the highest level. It was also the result of the vision and dedication of directors Mr. Wes Lowe and Mr. Mickey Smith Jr, whose commitment to building this program and pouring into their students was evident in every moment on stage. Through their leadership, these young musicians are not only developing remarkable skill but also learning meaningful life lessons that will serve them far beyond the stage.

More than a concert, this was a celebration of jazz, of education, and of what can happen when talented students are given the opportunity to share the stage with world class artists. If this performance is any indication, the future of jazz is not only in good hands, it is swinging stronger than ever.

Peter Cincotti

Peter Cincotti

Peter Cincotti & King's Academy Jazz Band

Wes Lowe, Director

King's Academy Jazz Band

Peter Cincotti

Peter Cincotti

McKenna Taylor

William Smith