TORONTO – When the Third Avenue Jazz Band from Uxbridge Secondary School hit the stage at the Toronto Jazz Festival’s prestigious Big Band Slam this summer, they didn’t just bring brass — they brought heart, history, and a powerful sense of community.
At the centre of it all is Ms. Amy Peck, the school’s music teacher and a proud Uxbridge alumna. After 25 years of inspiring young musicians across Durham Region, including at O’Neill Collegiate, Donald A. Wilson, and Brooklin high schools, Peck returned to her roots — and is now leading the next generation of performers from the very school where her own musical journey began.
“It’s such a special place,” said Peck. “It gave me my musical voice, and I feel so lucky to be back where it all started.”
A Gold-Standard Performance
This spring, Peck’s extracurricular jazz group — the Third Avenue Jazz Band — earned a gold standard rating at a provincial music festival. That recognition opened the door to a rare honour: an invitation to perform at the Big Band Slam, part of the Toronto Jazz Festival, alongside top-tier arts schools from across Ontario.
“This group is really like a family,” said Peck. “They’ve pushed themselves hard and created something truly special together.”
The performance at The Rex Hotel was a standout moment for many students — especially for graduating seniors who saw it as their final show together.
“I feel like this is our last performance with the band, and it’s going to feel different,” said student Ewan Matthew ahead of the festival.
Music That Builds Community
For students like Brandon Czmorek, currently finishing Grade 11, the music program has been transformative.
“Everything about this music community and program is great. We all help each other,” said Brandon, who plays trombone and bass trombone.
He originally hadn’t planned to stick with music, but Ms. Peck and the collaborative spirit of the band changed his mind. He now plans to return next year to mentor younger members.
Graduating student Freddy Hall echoed the sentiment:
“Ms. Peck was a big part of me getting involved in the band. I wasn’t sure if it was something I wanted to pursue, but I give all the credit to her.”
A Vision for the Future
Peck isn’t slowing down anytime soon. With plans already underway for next year’s performances, she’s excited about giving students the reins to lead and innovate.
“There’s something magical happening in our music room,” said Peck. “Students are connecting, practicing, and growing—not just as musicians, but as people.”
With continued support from the school’s arts team and opportunities to perform at festivals and community events, Uxbridge’s music program is hitting all the right notes.
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