Look out: here comes the next generation! The Freight sizzles with youthful energy as the award-winning, globe-trotting Berkeley High School Jazz Ensemble headlines a benefit concert for its education program and summer European tour. The 26-member group plays bebop and big band classics as well as more contemporary charts and original compositions.

For the past 22 years, Charles Hamiltonıs innovative and inspirational program has produced dozens of world-renowned musicians, many of whom are on hand as part of an all-star alumni combo created for tonightıs concert, including (so far) saxophonist Dave Ellis (class of ı86, of Charlie Hunter Trio, the post-Grateful Dead Other Ones, Bob Weirıs Ratdog), bassist Miles Perkins (class of ı86, leader of Mingus Amungus), trombonist Sarah Cline (class of ı81, founder of Farallon Brass Ensemble), and guitarist Will Bernard (class of ı77, dozens of bands from T. J. Kirk and Pothole to Peter Apfelbaumıs Hieroglyphics Ensemble and Baguette Quartette).

The Berkeley Arts Magnet (elementary) School Percussion Ensemble kicks off the evening.