Combo Number One competed in the “Battle of the Bands” at Jimmy Mak’s jazz club on Jan. 21. After winning the competition last year, the group of six musicians attempted to retain the trophy, but finished in second place.

Band director, Aaron Barnes wasn’t concerned about winning as much as giving students an opportunity to see what being a professional jazz musician is like. “It’s part of the jazz culture,” he said, “and my job is to expose kids to the jazz culture.” Sophomore bassist Colin Phipps agrees. “No matter the result, just being on that stage meant a whole lot,”he said.

While Battleground High School was the eventual winners, the pride of competing for the school was enough satisfaction for Phipps. “Going up there, representing Lincoln, and playing good jazz is always worth it,” he said. “Plus we got to meet the best bands in the area.”

 Jazz competitions are new for Phipps, as this is his first year with Combo One, and he believes the experience has lead to stronger friendships.“ After practicing that much, there is this sense of togetherness,” he said, “and being able to show that in front of judges and a crowd meant a lot.”