A quintet of California State University, Northridge jazz-studies students placed second in the college-combo division at this year’s annual Next Generation Monterey Jazz Festival (NGMJF) in Monterey, Calif.

The band, named “Kairos,” was formed by sophomore saxophonist Sean Harrison. Other band members include sophomore bassist Ian Houts, sophomore drummer Myles Martin, junior guitarist Keelan Walters and senior saxophonist Luke Reeder. The event took place over a three-day weekend, from March 9-11.

“I’m elated that our group of undergraduate students placed second for the college combo division at the prestigious Monterey Next Generation festival,” said CSUN jazz studies professor Matthew Harris. “These students worked hard and reflect the mission and values of CSUN regarding excellence.”

Along with the groups second-place finish, two of the CSUN jazz musicians — Keelan Walters and Luke Reeder — received outstanding soloist awards. Both Walters and Reeder are honored by their recognition. The festival itself, said Walters, was an “amazing time.”

“It is an incredible environment where jazz musicians from all over the country can come together and network and hear each other,” Walters said. “I feel very honored and grateful to have my combo place 2nd as well as receive an outstanding soloist award.”

Reeder, like Walters, also enjoyed his time at the event, referring to the festival as a “blast!”

“We were truly privileged to meet students from around the country and share music with each other,” Reeder said. “It was an honor to be picked as an outstanding soloist among so many incredibly talented musicians.”

The quintet competed against six other colleges, including the Berklee Global Jazz Institute Amber Ensemble; Sacramento State University Jazz Combo; the New School Improv Ensemble; University of Miami; Frost School of Music New Music Ensemble; and University of Las Vegas Honor Trio.

This year makes two years in a row that CSUN students have placed second at the festival. For more information on NGMJF and to view a full list of results, visit: http://www.montereyjazzfestival.org/NGJF/2018-next-generation-jazz-festival-results.