About The Band

The San Diego Community Jazz Band is part of the San Diego Community College District, specifically, the College of Continuing Education. It is a class (no fee and no credit) for adults. Its members are musicians with a desire and passion for jazz music, in the form of a jazz band (18+ piece). Participation is open to any with previous experience and an instrument (or a strong desire to learn how to play jazz). Music performed is a mixture of its genre and style, providing for a diverse exposure to jazz literature. The SDCJB is one of the finest adult community jazz bands in San Diego County. The band performs multiple times throughout the school year and goes year-round (Fall, Spring, and Summer).

How to Join

To join the band, start by going to the Continuing Education website (https://sdcce.edu/) and click on the “Apply Online” link. Should you have any trouble applying, you may call the Continuing Education main office at the Mesa College campus at 619-388-1950 and they will assist you. Be sure to email the Director of the jazz band, Richard Almanza ([email protected]), to let him know of your interest as well and he will help you prepare for your first day.

History of the band

The San Diego Community Jazz Band started in the summer of 2017 when several musicians in his community concert band approached Mr. Almanza to start a jazz band. With the approval of their Dean, the class started rehearsing in the Continuing Education building on the Mesa College campus, in room 118 (where they currently rehearse). They have played concerts at the Rancho Bernardo Library, performed mutual concerts with the Palomar College Jazz Bands, and the musicians are well respected by their peers. Mr. Almanza has taught music in the K-12 system and college for over 40 years and was awarded the CMEA Jazz Teacher award for his excellence in teaching jazz. He has sponsored jazz festivals for many years and his high school jazz bands were consistently exceptional earning Superior ratings at festivals.