At the awards ceremony, Mr. Marsalis presented prizes to each of the 20 finalist bands.
All monetary awards go towards improving each school's jazz program.
One of the most important criteria in the judging was 'soulfulness' and swinging. We always stress swinging and soul, because they are fundamental. We are trying to raise the whole soul quotient of America. And don't forget that, no matter who wins or loses today, you will always be musicians for the rest of your lives. In the two-part competition on April 30 and May 1 in Avery Fisher Hall, each band performed three Ellington works for the judges, fellow students, family members, and the general public.