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 band plays bebop and big band classics as well as contemporary charts and original compositions, sharing tonight's bill with various smaller combos of the band.

The ensemble, directed by Charles Hamilton for the past 22 years, is part of an innovative and inspirational program, which has produced dozens of world-renowned musicians including Joshua Redman, Peter Apfelbaum, Dave Ellis, and members of Mingus Amungus and the Farallon Brass Ensemble. The ensemble, was named the nation's top high school band for the second year running at the 2004 Monterey Jazz Festival competition.