Composer-in-Residence Experience | One Stop Rhythm Shop
Michele Fernández

Date: September 15, 2023
Time: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Cost: Free
Location: Ocoee High School, Bernie Hendricks, Director of Bands
1925 Ocoee Crown Point Pky | Ocoee, FL 34761

On Friday, Sep 15, Michele Fernández will present an in-depth rehearsal/clinic to help prepare the Ocoee High School Jazz Ensemble for the fall recording of her original works “Unidad en Rítmo; An Afro Cuban Jazz Suite” (new High School Edition), “Stand Your Ground” (Funk/Blues commissioned by JEN), and “Sunny Days in Green Eyes” (Samba).

During the rehearsal process, Michele will discuss/demonstrate the intricacies of authentic stylistic interpretation in both winds and rhythm section components in a manner to include and engage all students in a highly interactive experience. Teachers in the area are invited to sit in for the rehearsals. There is also a plan to make portions of the rehearsal viewable through Zoom for interested teachers to view.

The Pro version of “Unidad en Rítmo” is currently available as a demo for this clinic. It was premiered by the One O’Clock Lab Band (Alan Baylock, Director) on April 29, 2023 and will be performed at the 2023 Midwest Clinic by the Rio Grande Valley Jazz Orchestra, (Ronnie Rios, Director).

A portion of the new high school version recorded by Ocoee High School will be donated to fund clinics for underserved students in Florida, in loving memory of Zac and Kris Carrier, the two sons of Florida Music Educators Kendall and Kerrie Carrier. Zac and Kris were both members of Kendall (their father’s) high school rhythm section.

Included in the “Rhythm Shop” portion of the clinic: select video contributions by Michele’s esteemed colleagues and fellow HAPCO clinicians: Professors Scott Wilson (Trumpet) and Clyde Connor (Drum Set) of University of Florida.

Demos for the above charts avail at: www.Michele-Fernandez.com. Teachers interested in attending in-person or on Zoom, please contact Michele via her website.