In just three years, the Mountain Ridge Jazz Orchestra has distinguished itself as the signature instrumental music ensemble at the high school, and has been recognized with superior ratings in all of its festival appearances. The group is in high demand throughout the region, performing for a number of public and private functions.

Distinctions of note include the Best Overall Performance (School Population 1400 or less) at the 2009 Tri-State Jazz Festival at James Madison University; Superior Rating and Best Rhythm Section, Soloist, and Trombone Section  at the 2009 Blue Ridge Jazz Festival; and a superior rating at the 2010 Maryland State Jazz Festival.

On Friday, April 2, the MRJO will perform in Washington DC at the Kennedy Center's Millennium Stage.  The performance is free, and will begin at 6 p.m. 

For those unable to make the trip to Washington, the performance will be streamed live and archived on the Kennedy Center website.