The Kuumbwa Jazz Honor Band showcases some of the most talented student musicians from Santa Cruz County and the Central Coast region. During weekly rehearsals, the band studies advanced jazz theory, arranging, and improvisation, all while learning valuable life skills in teamwork and critical thinking. Band-members gain vital experience performing together, culminating in a special headline performance at the Kuumbwa Jazz Center.

The Honor Band is directed by David McGillicuddy, a graduate of Aptos High, Cabrillo College, and UCSC. He has been teaching music since 1997 and his jazz guitar YouTube lessons have garnered nearly a quarter-million views. A longtime member of the Kuumbwa community, he attended his first Kuumbwa show in 1985 and has been volunteering since 1988.