As you turn the corner down D-Hall at Twin Falls High School, you will likely hear something out of the ordinary. Every day roughly one hundred burgeoning musicians get the chance to “rock out” in the middle of the school day. Sometimes the sounds emanating from the band room sound jazzy, sometimes it sounds like a pep rally but it is clear that music education at Twin Falls High School is hitting some high notes!
A program of this caliber is not without challenges. Music instruments tend to be items that stretch budgets. As an example, the average saxophone ranges from $12,000 to $15,00 and saxophones are one of the lower costing instruments. Tubas and bassoons can easily carry a price tag of over $20,000
This year the Twin Falls High School Music Department is able to put some of those concerns aside thanks to a unique partnership, or should we say “jam session,” focused on providing a sense of harmony to the music program.
For many years, the Twin Falls community has hosted the Jazz on the Canyon event. Over the years the event has evolved and partners participating have changed but the most recent iteration of the event is really hitting a crescendo. This year’s annual event, organized by the Magic Valley Arts Council, the Twin Falls Education Foundation, and the Magic Valley Music Education Fund, showcased phenomenal jazz performances, including a guest appearance from the Twin Falls High School Jazz Band, and brought together the community in support of a vital cause. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Snake River Canyon rim, the event was further enriched by a delicious meal provided by Elevation 486. This picturesque setting, combined with outstanding performances, made for a truly magical evening.
While the event in itself is an impressive celebration of music in our community, the result of the funds raised is where the downbeat lands and everything comes together. The jazz riff you hear as you near the band room at TFHS wouldn’t be possible without this event. This year alone the event was able to provide enough funding for a new jazz guitar, amps, and a keyboard for both jazz band and marching band. Access to instruments like these would otherwise be limited in a community where nearly 65 percent of students qualify for free and reduced lunch and as such would likely not have access to purchase instruments on their own.
“First, support for music education is important because the academic benefits of these classes are scientifically proven. Students involved in music see higher achievement scores overall,” said Kristopher Crozier, Band Instructor at Twin Falls High School and Music Department Chair for the TFSD. “Beyond that, support for the arts provides students with a place, a place to belong whether that’s in the band at athletic events or singing in the choir.”
Crozier noted that district budgets can only provide so much and students often come forward to fundraise anywhere from $7,500 to $8,000 every year. Music programs utilize grants and community support to ensure that students have access to the instruments that make these programs possible.
A standing ovation is also due to the attendees and sponsors of Jazz on the Canyon. These melody-minded businesses and individuals provide the overture that gets the music started in our community. A special thank you to sponsors Scholes Dermatology, Idaho Central Credit Union, North Canyon Network of Care, Lytle Signs, Falls Brand, Elevation 486, and TEC Distributing.
“We are living in a time when the fate of music education feels uncertain, despite a wealth of compelling evidence relating to the value of music,” said Brent Severe, Executive Director of the Twin Falls Education Foundation. “Students who participate in school music programs exhibit more social-emotional skills like grit, perseverance, and teamwork. Due to budget constraints and antiquated musical instruments, music programs in our school district desperately need financial support to make them viable options for students participating in Arts and Humanities.”
Music education is an essential part of our community, fostering creativity, discipline, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts. Events like Jazz on the Canyon make a significant impact, ensuring that these programs can continue with their rhythm despite financial challenges.
How the Community Can Help:
- Sponsorships for 2025 Jazz on the Canyon are available today! Contact Magic Valley Arts Council for more information.
- Save the Date for 2025 Jazz on the Canyon: June 24, 2025. Tables at the event will be available for purchase through the Magic Valley Arts Council starting in April. Tables cost $900 for eight people.
- Donations can be made at any time to support music and arts education through the Twin Falls Education Foundation (tfefgive.org │ 208-933-GIVE (4483)).