ELK RAPIDS, MI -- Students at Elk Rapids High School take their jazz music very seriously. Now, they are doing all they can to keep their program alive.

‘Zero Hour Jazz Lab’ is a full credit class of about 20 students that meets at 6:50 a.m. They fit in a session of soulful jamming before most students even arrive for the normal school day.

“I just like coming in early and getting some feelings out before I go to class,” said Elk Rapids Senior, Crystal Koenig. “I like that you can be an individual and you can express yourself through music.” Classmate Lauren Quinlan agrees. “It’s kind of an escape from the norm…and it is more engaging for me,” said Quinlan.

Unfortunately, their school jazz band is struggling to stay afloat. Back in May, facing tough budget cuts, Elk Rapids Schools had to cut funding to the jazz program. Students held performances in the summer to raise money for the ‘Zero Hour Jazz Lab.’ Now, they are releasing a CD of their music. “Essentially we are trying to keep the jazz band class, which is a full credit class here in Elk Rapids, as an integral part of our curriculum,” said Band Director, Dave McKeon.

If you would like to support the program, CD's are available at Elk Rapids High School, 308 Meguzee Point Rd.,Elk Rapids MI 49629. You can also call Dave McKeon at 231-264-0711 for more information.