Performer Details
Performer Bio Synopsis
The RYSS Jazz Ensemble, representing RYSS Texas Public Schools in Houston, Texas, is a jazz program dedicated to excellence in performance, education, and student development. Founded in the fall of 2018, the ensemble was built on the belief that jazz is a powerful vehicle for transforming lives, cultivating community, and inspiring students to pursue a brighter future through music.
At the heart of the program is a culture of high expectations, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to growth. Through the study and performance of jazz, students develop musicianship, discipline, confidence, and resilience while engaging with one of America's greatest art forms. The ensemble's repertoire spans the rich traditions of jazz, from swing to Afro-Cuban styles, encouraging students to honor the music's history while discovering their own artistic voices.
The RYSS Jazz Ensemble is an active presence in the Houston arts community, performing at school functions, community celebrations, and regional festivals while collaborating with distinguished artists, clinicians, and educators. Through its longstanding partnership with the Diaz Music Institute, the program has elevated its level of musicianship while fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of jazz and Latin music.
The ensemble has also benefited from the support of Jazz at Lincoln Center through its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiative, providing students with transformative educational experiences, mentorship, and opportunities to engage with some of the nation's leading jazz educators and performers. These partnerships have played an important role in expanding students' musical perspectives and reinforcing the belief that every student deserves access to meaningful and inspiring artistic opportunities.
At its core, the RYSS Jazz Ensemble is defined not only by its pursuit of musical excellence, but also by a culture of belonging, service, and continuous growth. The program encourages students to dream beyond their circumstances, embrace hard work, and support one another in pursuit of a better future. Through music, students find their voice, build lasting relationships, and discover that excellence is achieved not only through talent, but through dedication, character, and a commitment to serving others.
RYSS Jazz Ensemble
Conductor's Bio
Harold Sedano, a Houston, Texas native, began his musical journey in the second grade when he first picked up the cornet. His passion for music grew through jazz band and early exposure to drum corps, experiences that led him to perform with the Phantom Regiment and shaped his lifelong commitment to music education and the marching arts.
Sedano earned a Bachelor of Music in Performance from the University of North Texas. Following graduation, he toured internationally in Japan for multiple summers as a performer with BLAST!, the Tony Award-winning theatrical production inspired by drum corps. These experiences expanded his artistic perspective and strengthened his commitment to excellence as both a performer and educator.
Upon returning to Houston, Sedano founded the jazz program at RYSS Early College High School, where he continues to inspire and mentor young musicians. While teaching, he earned a Master of Music in Jazz Pedagogy from the University of Arkansas at Monticello. Beyond his work at RYSS, Sedano serves on the instructional staff at Marcus High School, where working alongside outstanding educators and students continues to shape his philosophy of teaching, leadership, and program development. He also partners with his wife in designing marching band drill for ensembles throughout Texas, reflecting their shared passion for music education and the marching arts.
Sedano remains an active performer as a member of the Houston Latin Jazz Orchestra. Through education, performance, and mentorship, he is dedicated to expanding access to meaningful musical opportunities and creating transformative experiences for students. He credits his parents, brother, and wife for their unwavering support and believes he would not be where he is today without their encouragement, sacrifices, and belief in his journey.
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