The South Portland High School jazz ensemble and jazz combo attended the annual Berklee Jazz Festival in Boston this past weekend. The event, sponsored by the Berklee College of Music, is the largest high school jazz fest of its kind in the country.

Under the direction of Craig Skeffington, both the jazz ensemble and jazz combo from South Portland placed second in their division. In addition, senior Alex Quinn received an outstanding musicianship award. Quinn plays the trumpet and flugelhorn.

South Portland High and Skeffington were also honored with a special award for 30 years of participation at the jazz festival. The competition includes big bands, combos and vocal jazz ensembles from all across New England.

The Maine Instrumental Jazz Festival, which will be hosted by South Portland High School this year, will be held on March 13-14.