ROCKPORT — The CHRHS Jazz Band, under the direction of Nancy Rowe, earned a "Superior" rating at the District III Jazz Festival held at Brunswick High School on Wednesday, Feb. 25.

A "Superior" rating means that the ensemble demonstrated an "outstanding performance in nearly every aspect and detail" and "exceeds the standards of Musical Performance".

The ensemble was praised for technical and artistic merit, especially in the areas of balance and blend.

Nick LeClerc, alto saxophone soloist for Pure Imagination, earned the "Judge's Choice Award".

Tom Cox, Shawn Albertson, Tyler Bilodeau and Matt Watts also earned awards for "Outstanding Musicianship" for their solo work.

Having earned a "Superior" rating, the ensemble will now go forward and compete at the State Jazz Festival to be held at South Portland H.S. Saturday, March 14.

The ensemble will also participate; along with MOJO, the Oceanside and CRMS Jazz Bands, in the "Meals on Wheels" benefit to be held at the CHRHS Wave Café Thursday, March 19 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.