Paso Robles High School Jazz Band earns first place at Cuesta Jazz Festival
Festival brings together student musicians from across the region
– The Paso Robles High School (PRHS) Jazz Band closed out its festival season on a high note, earning first place in its division at the 2026 Cuesta College Jazz Festival, held Saturday, March 14, in San Luis Obispo.
Competing against four schools in their division, PRHS musicians stood out for both their musical performance and their professionalism, also earning Outstanding Section Awards for both the saxophone and trumpet sections.
The award-winning saxophone section includes: Sunset Makarow-Sanchez, Erick Vigil, Diana Ojeda Bocardo, Mya Grajeda, Carter Mauck, Corbin Moore, and Hannah Paulsen.
The recognized trumpet section includes: Braden Padilla, Wylie Stong, Paulina Anguian-Sandoval, and Logan Gard.
Hosted annually by Cuesta College, the Central Coast Jazz Festival brings together student musicians from across the region for two days of performances, adjudicated feedback, and educational clinics led by professional musicians. The event is widely regarded as both a competitive and instructional experience, designed to support student growth in jazz performance.
According to PRHS Jazz Band Director Humberto Cera, the ensemble’s success reflects more than musical ability.
“The judges love working with our students because they are engaged, responsive to feedback, and willing to ask and answer questions,” Cera said. “They bring a level of curiosity and professionalism that stands out, and it’s not uncommon for other educators to offer their time to work with our students because of that.”
The PRHS Jazz Band’s performance at Cuesta marks the culmination of a successful festival season and highlights the strength of music education in Paso Robles Joint Unified School District. Participation in events like the Cuesta Jazz Festival provides students with opportunities to refine their technical skills, collaborate with peers, and learn directly from experienced musicians and adjudicators.
