IWU Jazz Festival

The 52nd Annual Illinois Wesleyan Jazz Festival

March 27-28, 2026

We are thrilled to invite you to the 52nd Annual Illinois Wesleyan Jazz Festival, taking place on March 27-28, 2026, at Illinois Wesleyan University. This milestone event will celebrate jazz education with performances, clinics, and an inspiring concert by our Illinois Wesleyan University Jazz Ensemble.

Event Details:

• Dates: March 27-28, 2026
• Location: Illinois Wesleyan University, School of Music
  Presser Hall – Westbrook Auditorium
• Admission: Free and open to the public

Festival Highlights:

• Ensemble Performances: Featuring high school and middle school jazz ensembles in a supportive, non-competitive atmosphere.
• Jazz Ensemble Performance: There will be a performance by our wonderful clinicians and special guests, Jarrard Harris, Gabriel Wade, James Mauck, Maxwell Beckman and Kurt Reeder on Friday, March 27th at 2:40pm – 3:30pm. The Dr. Lewis Big Band will also perform with some of the most talented musicians in the area compiled of students from Illinois Wesleyan, Illinois State, University of Illinois, Chicago State and the clinicians.
• Clinic Sessions: Each performing group will receive a private, 20-minute clinic to refine and enhance their musicianship.

We hope your ensemble can join us for this special event! If you have any questions or need further information, please feel free to reach out.

Festival Participation Includes

• Non competitive performances by high school and middle school ensembles
• A performance by IWU’s  premiere Jazz Ensemble
• A private 20-minute clinic for each performing group
• Professional performances and masterclass
• There will be a scholarship provided by Birch Creek to attend their jazz camp to the most outstanding soloist
• There will be an award given to the most outstanding soloist for each day

Location

Illinois Wesleyan University, School of Music
Presser Hall  - Westbrook Auditorium