Milwaukee City Wire

When the Milwaukee High School of the Arts (MHSA) Vocal Jazz Ensemble performs, they capture attention nationwide. Recently, DownBeat Magazine recognized members of the ensemble with two performance awards. These accolades are part of the 2025 DownBeat Student Music Awards, a competition that has honored MHSA students 13 times since 2014 under the direction of Raymond Roberts.

Roberts has been named a quarterfinalist for the Recording Academy and GRAMMY Museum's 2026 Music Educator Award. His influence is evident in his students' achievements in various competitions at regional, state, and national levels.

Alani Eastman, a senior soprano from MHSA who received a Showcase Recital award from CIVIC MUSIC MKE with Roberts accompanying her on piano, praised Roberts saying, “He brings a different level of professionalism to the classroom and really makes us work for our dreams—opportunities I never even thought of.” Eastman's audition during a visit from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff’s Vesper Choir resulted in a full-tuition scholarship to major in business while continuing her singing.

The ensemble’s achievements extend beyond these awards. Lex, another student from MHSA's class of 2025, has earned recognition as both a YoungArts Award recipient and now holds DownBeat soloist honors. She performed songs by Minnie Ripperton and Adele. Reflecting on Roberts' impact, Lex said: “I feel like every student... deserves a Roberts in their life.”

Agustin, also from MHSA's class of 2025 and set to attend Carroll University as a business major while participating in choir activities there, was encouraged by Roberts to explore singing alongside playing guitar. This led to Agustin earning DownBeat honors with his group’s rendition of jazz standards like "Afro Blue." Agustin shared his thoughts: “It meant a lot when Roberts asked me to sing for him.”

Amiracle is an MHSA junior who participated in Yale University's Kaleidoscope Vocal Academy after submitting performance videos this spring. Preparing for future aspirations including potentially attending Yale herself in fall 2026 she remarked on Roberts’ dedication: “Roberts is a one-man show... Somehow he manages to keep going."