Singers, players, writers meld in extraordinary Chaney Jazz Ensemble

YOUNGSTOWN

Members of the Chaney Jazz Ensemble are like gems in a fine piece of jewelry.

Each one sparkles individually, but together, they shine.

“We’re like a family,” freshman Amya Franziskasis, 15, said. “We all have different talents, but when you mesh them together, it’s a big boom of sound.”

Unlike a chorale, which follows a piece note for note, singers in the jazz ensemble improvise, explained William Eldridge, who directs the 10-member ensemble.

“It’s freedom,” he said.

Eldridge plays a melody and points to one student after another who belts out their own tune. Each interpretation is different, but it all flows together.

“They have done a lot of work,” said the director, who also teaches piano at the school.

Some students excel at writing words or music, others have crisp, clean voices, and still others’ strengths lie in performance. Eldridge tries to allow each to showcase his or her gifts within the group.

Read more about this extraordinary musical group in Sunday's Vindicator or on Vindy.com.