The Mission Bay High School Music Program is quickly becoming the leading program in San Diego for jazz education. Home to their award winning Mission Bay Preservationists and the Jazz Ensemble, Mission Bay pays tribute to traditional New Orleans jazz and swing. Students are given the opportunity to work with some of the finest musicians in the country and perform at professional venues throughout California.

The Music Director: Jean-Paul (JP) Balmat, a Mission Bay High School alumni, currently directs the Music Department at Mission Bay.  Balmat performed in the jazz band all four years under the direction of Rey Vinole.   Balmat attended San Diego State University where he graduated with honors receiving a bachelor’s degree in Music Education.  With the support and dedication of Mission Bay High School community and staff, the music program was resurrected after a two year hiatus with Balmat as their new music director. Read more

The Preservationists (formerly the Mission Bay High School Dixie Jazz Band) is San Diego's premier traditional youth jazz band. The band has been featured at venues throughout San Diego County and California including: House of Blues, Petco Park, Sea World, Dizzy's, Tango Del Rey, Ocean Beach Music and Art Festival and the Sacramento Jazz Festival. This exciting, versatile group performs traditional New Orleans jazz and swing. They are sponsored by America's Finest City Dixieland Jazz Society and are one of the featured youth bands at their annual Thanksgiving Jazz Festival. For booking information and more click here.

The Jazz Ensemble was founded in 1974 by professional trumpeter and Mission Bay alumnus Rey Vinole. Through the decades Mr. Vinole built a program that would rival any big band in the state. After a 20 year hiatus the band was brought back by current music director Mr. Balmat. After 3 years, the band is becoming one of the strongest in the city. More info

The Concert Jazz Band is the training ground for all our new jazz musicians. Students learn the foundations of jazz and improvisation. This ensemble performs at our two main concerts at the school. More info