World Renowned Jazz Musician Inspires Students at Cape

World-renowned jazz trombonist, composer, and bandleader Wycliffe Gordon brought his extraordinary talent and passion for music education to the Cape Henlopen School District this week, leading a hands-on jazz clinic for students from across Sussex and Kent counties.

The event, held in conjunction with the True Blue Jazz Festival, featured student musicians from Cape Henlopen High School’s Jazz I ensemble, the Dover High School Jazz Band, and middle school jazz band students from across the Cape District.

Throughout the clinic, Gordon shared insights from his acclaimed career, which includes performing with the Wynton Marsalis Septet and the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, and worked directly with students on improvisation, tone, and ensemble performance.

“Wycliffe’s energy and enthusiasm were contagious,” said Christopher Burkhart, Cape Henlopen High School Director of Bands. “He has an incredible way of connecting with students, meeting them where they are, and inspiring them to push their musical boundaries.”

Students had the opportunity to play for Gordon, ask questions, and learn how the fundamentals of jazz, creativity, collaboration, and communication, extend far beyond music. “Opportunities like this give students a glimpse into the professional world of jazz and show them what’s possible through dedication and a love for the art form,” said Dr. LouAnn Hudson, Assistant Superintendent of the Cape Henlopen School District. “As a former music educator myself, I’m so grateful to the True Blue Jazz Festival for helping bring such an inspiring experience and opportunity to not just our music students here at Cape, but our entire community as well.”

The clinic is part of the Cape Henlopen School District’s ongoing commitment to arts education, providing students with meaningful, real-world learning experiences that connect classroom instruction to professional artistry.