Ms. Diane Reyes

Conservatory student Diane Reyes earned 3rd place nationally in the Essentially Ellington Essay Contest, sponsored by Jazz At The Lincoln Center in New York. The contest invites music students to submit a 800-word essay exploring the connections between jazz and democracy. Submissions are reviewed by jazz great Wynton Marsalis.

The students are asked to explore how democracy is represented by jazz and what the music at its best teaches us about American life, from the school house to the White House. Submissions should cite specific performances, recordings, and personal experiences.

Ms. Reyes' essay earned her a Certificate signed by Wynton Marsalis, an assortment of five essential jazz recordings, a selection of classic jazz literature, and a subscription to a major jazz publication. Her essay will be published on the Jazz at Lincoln Center website.

Ms. Reyes, a senior, plays lead trumpet in Marching Band, Jazz Ensemble and Wind Ensemble at the Conservatory. She is also a member of the Blue Stars Drum Corps.