ROCHESTER, N.Y. — ​The Eastman Community Music School’s Youth Jazz Orchestra is a collection of talented high schoolers from all across the area.

“One of the fun things is to see how many people come from the EYJO and then go on to have successful careers in music,” Ensemble Director Colin Gordon said.

Daniel Kinney is their drummer. He has played music his entire life, and is devoted to the art.

“I think it’s really just the community of bringing people together, and the opportunity to provide for you,” Kinney said.

This is his first year with the EYJO, which he considers a big honor.

“Just to play with high-quality players who are really invested in their craft is really nice,” he said.

Every year, the orchestra performs at the CGI Rochester International Jazz Festival, which takes place right outside their practice hall.

“The Jazz Fest is just, you know, the most amazing opportunity to play next to international musicians and huge stars on the scene,” Gordon said.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the festival has been put off for a second year in a row. But performers like Daniel are taking the news in stride.

“I just hope we are able to get some other performance opportunities, because that’s really all it’s about. It doesn’t really need the prestige of the Jazz Fest. But yeah, that’s too bad,” Kinney said.

He’s just glad to be practicing as a full band again, and can’t wait for others to see.

“It's just the thrill of a live performance and being able to play with the other musicians. And just being able to share what we love with the audience,” Kinney added.

The Eastman Youth Jazz Orchestra Ensemble will be live streaming a performance June 3, as part of the music school’s Spring Festival, which can be viewed at esm.Rochester.edu.