Two musical groups consisting of Maine West students took first and third place honors at the Illinois State Jazz Festival held Saturday, February 2.

The combo which placed first is led by Steve Prorak '70 and includes Marjorie Cameron '71, Jim Lillquist '69, Nancy Schupp '69, Doug Kuite '71, and Roy Hanson '70. This group received a trophy which was given to the Maine West Music Department.

The Ted Wagner Quintet captured third place. Ted Wagner '69 plays saxophone, with Jim Glaser '69 on bass guitar, Bruce Nelson '69 on vibes, and Steve Ware '69 on percussion.

There were about 20 jazz groups from throughout the state of Illinois participating," explained Ted. "Each group was judged according to a point system by professional jazz musicians, the point range being from 9 to 48. The groups receiving fewer points were the winners."

Steve's group, which placed first, totaled a point average of 9; the Ted Wanger Quintet completed their act with a sum of 12 points. The Jazz Festival was held at the Oak Lawn Community High School, Saturday, January 2, from 8:30 am, to 4 p.m. Winners were announced at the end of the day.

Steve Prorak and group used three numbers during competition; they were "Sister Sadie," "Last Hope's Gone," and "So What." The musical arrangements were done by Steve and his brother Don.

The Ted Wagner Quintet performed "Summertime" and "Going Out of My Head" during their competition time allowance. Musical arrangements were handled by Bruce Nelson '69.

Several students and faculty members accompanied the two groups to the Illinois State Jazz Festival. Mr. Robert Kuite, Music Department chairman, commented, "We are very pleased with the results of the festival and are proud of the performances given by our students."