“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 91ֱ��.

For more information and to register for the event, please contact Van Houzen at 573-288-6812.

The program will begin with the Collegiate Choir singing “Veni, Veni Emmanuel” by John Michael Trotta. The group will also be performing classics, including “Psallite” by Praetorius and the rhythmic spiritual “Go Where I Send Thee!”

Following the Collegiate Choir, the Concert Choir will provide seasonal music by contemporary composers and conclude with the singing of Handel’s famous “Hallelujah” from Messiah. Mary, the Rose of Christmas, will be honored when the Chamber Choir presents “Hosanna.”

The Annual Christmas Concert is free and open to the public. For audiences unable to attend in person, the concert is available for live streaming at: . Following the performance, guests are invited to the Merillat Recital Hall for a dessert reception and music from the Jazz Ensemble.