This year’s JazzFest will include 180 students with 130 representing area high schools including Kirksville, Hannibal, Central Lee, Keokuk, Mexico, Highland, and 50 junior high students from Hannibal and Central Lee.
“JazzFest is designed to offer an immersive and enriching experience for young musicians, providing them with unique opportunities to learn from seasoned jazz professionals,” stated Assistant Professor of Music Aren Van Houzen. “Under the guidance of several regional jazz experts, each participating band will receive personalized clinics and coaching sessions throughout the day. This year’s JazzFest promises to be a day filled with learning, inspiration, and unforgettable performances, and we look forward to welcoming all participants and guests to our campus.”
Sessions will cover a wide range of topics including full ensemble coaching, sectionals for trumpets, trombones, saxes, and rhythm, improvisation and theory workshops, as well as engaging discussions on jazz history and listening. Additionally, students will have the chance to explore college audition strategies, recruiting opportunities, and take part in a campus tour, providing valuable insights into the next steps of their musical journey.
JazzFest is non-competitive with a goal of fostering a supportive and collaborative environment where participants can focus on growth and learning without the pressure of competition. All sessions will be open to participants and guests.
The final concert, where each band will showcase their skills by performing selections they have refined throughout the day, will take place at 3:15pm in the Alexander Campbell Auditorium, located in the Robert W. Brown Performing Arts Center on the campus of Culver-Stockton College.
For more information and to register for the event, please contact Van Houzen at 573-288-6812.
Contact the Marketing & Public Relations Office, at pr@culver.edu or 573-288-6000 ext. 6728 for more information.
NOTE: A number that appears immediately after a person’s name (i.e. Jane Doe ’18) is a reference to the year that person earned their bachelor’s degree from Culver-Stockton.