OVERVIEW
The 2026 Fordham University Jazz Festival is a one-day, non-competitive celebration of student jazz performance and education. The festival will take place on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Fordham University’s Lincoln Center campus in New York City.
Designed to offer a positive, inspiring, and educational experience for high-school jazz ensembles, the festival provides each participating group:
30-minute performance
30-minute warm-up/rehearsal period
30-minute post-performance clinic with Fordham University and Jazz Arts Collective faculty and guest artists
A dedicated clinician who remains with the ensemble for the full 90-minute cycle of warm-up, performance, and workshop
Throughout the day, students may also participate in:
Instrument Workshops led by festival clinicians
Faculty-led Jam Sessions
A closing concert featuring faculty and guest artists
A brief Awards Ceremony recognizing student participation and achievement
The festival is non-competitive and focused on learning, collaboration, and celebrating the musical accomplishments of young jazz artists. Space is limited, and registration is accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Festival Details
Date: Saturday, March 7, 2026
Location: Fordham University – Lincoln Center Campus
113 W. 60th St., New York, NY
Format: Non-competitive educational festival
Eligibility: Middle and High-school jazz ensembles (big band–style ensembles of any instrumentation or size)
Registration Fee: $300 per ensemble
Performance Length: 30 minutes
Warm-up / Clinic: 30 minutes each with a dedicated clinician
