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Since 2005, KNKX's School of Jazz has provided mentorship, learning and performance opportunities to Western Washington middle school, high school and college jazz students. A cornerstone of the station's signature community outreach program, it has directly impacted thousands of jazz students, band directors and professional musicians. School of Jazz is sponsored by BECU.

KNKX Student DJs: Issac Ford and Ian McTamaney

Issac Ford and Ian McTamaney, who attend Kelso High school, are KNKX's guest DJs on May 3 from 8-9 p.m.

Name: Isaac Ford

Age: 17

Grade: Junior

Which instrument do you play and why? I play the double bass because I learned how much I enjoy the sound of the instrument after watching a local jazz band play at my elementary school, and I also learned after only a few months of playing it that I really enjoy the role of being the back bone of various music groups.

What is your all-time favorite jazz piece? My favorite jazz piece is “Slop” by Charles Mingus.

Who is your jazz hero? Charles Mingus is my jazz hero.

Why jazz? I like the fact that creativity and craziness is so accepted. I get so bored of how structured most of life is and I'm so glad to have jazz to express myself.

Name: Ian McTamaney

Age: 18

Grade: Senior

Which instrument do you play and why? I play the piano. It is one of the most expressive instruments, and I love the flexibility in how I can play solo as well collaborate with others.

What is your all-time favorite jazz piece? My all time favorite Jazz piece is “St. Thomas” by Sonny Rollins.

Who is your jazz hero? Sonny Rollins is my jazz hero.

Why jazz? Jazz is constantly changing and innovative, so it’s exciting to be  a part of something that allows you to be unique and creative.

Issac & Ian's playlist:

“Come Rain or Shine” Art Blakey Jazz Messengers (Moanin’)

“Blue in Green” Miles Davis (Kind of Blue)

“Beat Street” Brian Ho (Organic)

“Cave of Rebirth” Tigran Hamasyan (An Ancient Observer)

“September Song” Red Norvo (Night and Day)

“Countdown” John Coltrane (Giant Steps)

“Slop” Charles Mingus (This is Jazz, Volume 6)

“Dance Me to The End of Love” Madeleine Peyroux (Careless Love)

“Quietude” Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Orchestra (Complete Solid State Rec.)

“St. Thomas” Sonny Rollins (Saxophone Colossus)