UNC Greeley Jazz Festival

The largest event of its kind in the nation, the UNC Greeley Jazz Festival brings together internationally recognized artists, jazz lovers, award-winning clinicians, and over 150 college, high school, and middle school big bands, combos, and jazz vocal groups from across the country. Each year, over 4,000 participants enjoy mainstage concerts, after-hours sessions, non-competitive daytime performances , and educational workshops. School groups get valuable feedback on their performance and an individual clinic session with our top-notch lineup of artist-clinicians.

Thursday • April 23 | Two Shows: 4:30 PM & 7:30 PM

A Centennial Celebration of Miles Davis & John Coltrane — Walter Smith III, saxophone; Skylar Tang, trumpet; with the Compass Jazz Orchestra — Honoring the 100th birthdays of two jazz icons with two of today’s most compelling voices in modern jazz, joined by the Compass Jazz Orchestra in a powerful tribute performance.

Alicia Olatuja featuring David Rosenthal, guitar — Renowned for her breathtaking tone and expressive depth, Alicia Olatuja brings her extraordinary artistry to the festival stage in a performance you won’t want to miss.

Friday • April 24 | Two Shows: 4:30 PM & 7:30 PM

Alfredo Rodriguez Quintet — Internationally acclaimed pianist and composer Alfredo Rodríguez brings his electrifying quintet to Greeley for a high-energy set blending virtuosity, Cuban tradition, and contemporary jazz innovation.

A Tribute to Jaco Pastorius feat. The Compass Jazz Orchestra and special guest Victor Wooten — The award-winning Compass Jazz Orchestra pays tribute to the legendary Jaco Pastorius in an electrifying performance featuring music from Weather Report, the Word of Mouth Big Band, and more. Joined by special guest bassist Victor Wooten, this set promises virtuosity, groove, and a celebration of one of the most influential bassists in jazz history.

Saturday • April 25 | 4:30 PM

The Legacy of Ray Brown — Jeff Hamilton, drums; John Clayton, bass; and Larry Fuller, piano — Honoring the 100th birthdays of two jazz icons with two of today’s most compelling voices in modern jazz, joined by the Compass Jazz Orchestra in a powerful tribute performance.

Zaremba Jazz Fellowship — Led by Drew Zaremba with Wayne Bergeron — The inventive writing and electric energy of the Zaremba Jazz Fellowship—under the direction of Drew Zaremba—meets the powerhouse trumpet artistry of Wayne Bergeron for a high-octane big band experience.