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Celebrate the performance and play your heart out.

The Clark Terry/Phi Mu Alpha Jazz Festival showcases excellent student musicians and guest artists from around the nation, all contributing to a vibrant festival of jazz and the celebration of music performance and education. 

The festival has grown in size every year, becoming known as the premier student event in the region. We look forward to welcoming new student groups, national artists, clinicians, and adjudicators from across the country each year. Our goal is to ensure that every participant leaves the festival energized, with a greater appreciation and knowledge for the art of jazz music and performance.

Dr. Felipe Brito, Festival Director

26th Annual Clark Terry/Phi Mu Alpha Jazz Festival 2026  

  • Feb. 19-20, 2027 

Evening Gala Concert

Featuring Jared Schonig and the Southeast Missouri State University Jazz Ensembles

Friday, February 19, 2027
7:30 p.m.
Bedell Performance Hall
River Campus 
Tickets: $15

We can't wait to hear and meet you at this year's festival!

Student groups begin at 8 a.m.

Application for Middle and High School Bands

Entry Fee

$185 for each participating band.
Includes:

  • Performance Recording
  • Adjudication
  • Improvisation clinics

Featured Artist

Jared Schonig

jay webb poses for a professional portrait, leaning against a streelight post and holding his trumpetAward-winning drummer, composer & bandleader Jared Schonig is the drummer of the New York Broadway show Just in Time and The 8-Bit Big Band.

He has toured and recorded with a long list of renowned artists, including Nicholas Payton, Chris Potter, Dr. Lonnie Smith, John Patitucci, Dave Grusin, and many celebrated vocalists such as Kurt Elling, Cynthia Erivo, and Kristen Chenoweth. His credits include multiple Grammy-winning records, Tony Award musicals, and Emmy-winning TV performances.

He co-led The Wee Trio, which released five acclaimed albums over eight years, and released two solo albums of original music in 2021. His groups have performed at major venues and festivals worldwide, from Carnegie Hall to Zimbabwe. On Broadway, he has originated seven drum books and held the drum chair for The Color Purple and Moulin Rouge! The Musical. He is also an in-demand studio and commercial session player.

 

Jazz Festival Registration

If you would like your band to perform during the Clark Terry/Phi Mu Alpha Jazz Festival, registration is required and there is a fee of $185 for the first band or combo.

Contact Us

Location

River Campus Seminary, 254

Mailing Address

One University Plaza, MS 7800
Cape Girardeau, MO 63701