Xavier’s Jazz Band One (JBO) reflected Xavier’s reputation of excellence by placing third in the state competition.

“Besides rehearsing as a group, it takes some mental preparation,” junior Ben Trachta said. “You just need to stay relaxed and confident going into a competition, and have fun with it.”

JBO has been in rehearsal since October and wrapped up their season at the Iowa Jazz Championship on April 2. Their final performance was on April 15 in the Regis-LaSalle Theatre.

“Our goal for state was to be as prepared as we could be,” junior Juliana Karl said.

Karl has been playing trombone in jazz band for three years.

“I was pretty proud of the outcome. We may not have gotten first, but getting third is still a very big accomplishment,” Trachta said.

In the past two years, Xavier’s JBO has placed second and third in class 3A in the statewide competition.

“Get ready to work hard. It’s a big commitment and you have to be 100% in,” senior David Weaver said about next year’s season.

Jazz band auditions for next year will be in October.