Huntington Beach High School (Jazz) Band performed in this photo under the direction of Greg Gilboe.

Huntington Beach, Calif.―Student musicians from Huntington Beach High School (Oilers) band put on their best blue jeans and black, matching T-shirts to perform at the Memorial Day service at Pier Plaza in Huntington Beach. The event is held each memorial day at the pierside amphitheater overlooking the Pacific Ocean, sand beaches and Huntington Beach Pier.

In May 2006 the Huntington Beach High School Oiler Band celebrated 100 Years of Music at a Centennial Celebration. A commissioned work by Robert W. Smith to honor the 100 Years of Music and dinner reception and jazz concert featuring All-Star Alumni Jazz Ensembles.

Jazz has a long and honored history in the city of Huntington Beach. Tom Kubis, who teaches at Golden West College in the city, is recognized throughout the jazz world for his compositions and orchestration. Contemporary artists such as pianist/composer Keiko Matsui has found success around the globe, playing concerts to sold out audiences in Europe and Asia. And countless musicians have met commercial success as professional studio artists for major recording firms and talents. 

While youth and musical students in Huntington Beach are surrounded by excellence and a creative environment to expand their talents, Huntington Beach High School is widely recognized for a unique arts program that allows students with exceptional skills to receive advanced training in music, dance, theater and performing arts.

So when your toes start to tap to the sound of some quality jazz, don't be surprised when you turn around to look and notice the average age of band members is around 17.