Crossroads Jazz Earns Top Honors at Prestigious NYC Competition

Each spring, student musicians from across the country gather in New York City for the WorldStrides Heritage Festival NYC, a prestigious competition that celebrates excellence in performance and musicianship. Led by Music Department Chair Ramsey Castaneda, Crossroads Jazz bands first attended in 2024. The Jazz “A” Band earned first place both times, an achievement that reflects their talent and dedication.

This year, during the four day trip in April, the Jazz 4 ensemble delivered an exceptional showing, earning Gold First Place, which is the highest level of achievement in the competition. They were also awarded the Outstanding Band Trophy for the highest-rated ensemble and the Adjudicator Award Trophy. Jazz 3 also impressed, earning Gold Third Place. 

Individual students were honored as well. Senior pianists Lola Goetz and Sissi Rao received Maestro Awards for extraordinary musical ability and sensitivity. Sissi also earned the festival’s singular Ovation Award, recognizing a student whose impact transcends music through determination, inspiration and service. “Joining the jazz program my freshman year was one of the best decisions I've made here at this school,” said Sissi. “Ramsey is a phenomenal teacher and person. We've all improved so much as musicians and as individuals, and the ability to grow alongside my peers definitely makes this program even more meaningful.”

In addition to the competition, our musicians enjoyed soaking up the sights and sounds of Times Square and Central Park, and navigating the city by subway, something many of them had never done before! They also got to take in music around the city, attending shows at Birdland Jazz Club and Dizzy's Club. They also saw the Broadway show “Buena Vista Social Club,” visited the 9/11 museum and memorial, and ascended to the top of the World One tower. 

Student musicians were invited to attend a special masterclass with New School professor Marc Mommaas, who helped the bands refine their skills and spoke to them about the college audition process. They also received a second masterclass at Lincoln Center with jazz trombonist Mariel Bildsten.