Tuba player Sebastian Endrigo-Williams rehearses with the Santa Cruz High band. Tuba is Latin for “trumpet.” A person who plays the tuba is called a tubaist, a tubist or simply a tuba player.

Christy Latham conducts a rehearsal of the award-winning Santa Cruz High School Band. Latham has been the band director at Santa Cruz High School since 1999, and in 2010 she was awarded Band Director of the Year by the Northern California Band Association.

Bass trombonist Sawyer Thomas and the rest of the brass section give their all during rehearsal with the Santa Cruz High School Band. The band is celebrating its 100th anniversary and is commemorating the occasion with a concert on Feb. 1 at the Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium. The milestone celebration will feature performances by the acclaimed Santa Cruz High School Jazz Band and Marching Band, and is intended to showcase a century of musical excellence and community spirit. The public is encouraged to join the celebration of the rich legacy of the school’s music program. The celebration will also include a lively taco bar and refreshments to enjoy while reveling in music that has united generations. Established in 1925, the Santa Cruz High band program is one of the oldest in the state, and the band will continue their extraordinary run this year with a performance at esteemed John Philip Sousa Festival at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., in March. “Being selected to perform at the Kennedy Center is an incredible honor for our students and our community,” said Band Director Christy Latham. “This trip is not only about showcasing our talent but also about gaining a broader appreciation for our country’s heritage and the role music plays in bringing people together.” For more information about the Santa Cruz High School Band’s trip to Washington, D.C., or to learn how you can support their journey, you can contact Latham at christinalatham@sccs.net. Tickets for the Feb. 1 concert will be available at the door.

Clarinetist Nora Clay stays focused during rehearsal.

Percussionist Avery Addae notates on his charts during rehearsal of a piece in which he plays timpani.