High school jazz musician lands spot with national band

NEW PORT RICHEY (FOX 13) - A teen saxophonist is making waves in musical circles around the country - from a makeshift band room in his family's garage. 

J. W. Mitchell High School senior Kyle Schroeder started playing the saxophone only four years ago, at the beginning of high school. However, his natural talent and hard work landed him a spot in the Jazz Band of America; A group of the country's best high school musicians. 

"Its definitely going to be a great experience that I know that I will remember for the rest of my life," Kyle said.

Kyle's one of three students from Florida picked to play in the prestigious band.

"A bunch of the best high school players throughout the whole United States are going to be there in the band, and I am super psyched to be playing with them," Kyle added.

Kyle's musical roots go back to childhood.

"Every since I was little I had an inclination to love music and listen to music," Kyle explained.

Kyle has some high-profile experience under his belt. He's shared the stage with some of the best artists in the Bay Area.

"Millie Abear, Eric Darius, B. K. Jackson, Nathan Mitchell, Allen Sams, just to name a few - and it's been an honor being able to play with them and learning from them while I play," Kyle said. "I love it so much, deep in my heart, and I have so much love for music that I'm going to try and take this all the way."

Many in the Bay Area have already heard Kyle play. He regularly performs the National Anthem at the Tampa Bay Rays games. He also plays in the Ruth Eckerd Hall Jazz Band and has played at the Clearwater Jazz Holiday.

He has scholarships from some of the best musical schools in the country.

The Jazz Band of America concert is in Indianapolis, Indiana March 9 through 12.