Jazz Festival
The 2026 University of Minnesota Jazz Festival will take place February 27 and 28, 2026.
The 2026 event will begin on Friday, February 27 at 7:00 PM with a performance by the University of Minnesota Jazz Combos in Lloyd Ultan Recital Hall. On Saturday, February 28, visiting bands will perform a 20-minute set in Ted Mann Concert Hall and receive a 40-minute clinic from our esteemed clinicians and guest artists. The event will culminate with a 11:30am concert in Ted Mann Concert Hall featuring the University of Minnesota Jazz Ensembles and baritone saxophonist Gary Smulyan, our 2026 Jazz Festival featured artist.
- Dean Sorenson, Jazz Festival director
- Dave Pietro, featured guest artist
Festival Registration
Registration for the 2026 University of Minnesota Jazz Festival is now full.
- 2026 registration fees are $450 for each participating big band.
- For more information about the event or future jazz festivals, please contact this email address.
Schedule and Location
All events are located in either Lloyd Ultan Recital Hall or Ted Mann Concert Hall on the West Bank of the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities campus. All performances are free and open to the public: School of Music Location and Facilities
- Friday, February 27, 7:00pm, Lloyd Ultan Recital Hall: University of Minnesota Jazz Combo performance
- Saturday, February 28, 8:30-11:00am and 1:00-3:30pm, Ted Mann Concert Hall: Participating school performances
- Saturday, February 28, 11:30am, Ted Mann Concert Hall: Feature concert with University of Minnesota big bands with special guest Dave Pietro.
- Saturday, February 28, 12:45pm, Ted Mann Concert Hall: Masterclass with saxophonist Dave Pietro.