Registration & Competition

• Who can participate? Middle school and high school ensembles. Director's Letter
• Entry Fee: $275.00 per band (includes recording services). Application Link
• Entry Deadline: Application forms and competition fee must be postmarked by March 16th.
• Selection: Bands are selected on a first-come, first-serve basis. A standby list will be available.
• Schedule: Competition starts around 8:00am with middle school groups and concludes with high school bands.

Goals & Adjudication

The primary goal is to provide a positive and educational opportunity. Judges are instructed to share their knowledge of jazz by giving helpful, educational comments.

• Adjudicators: Zack Varner (St. Mary's University), Roland Sandoval (Retired Fine Art Director), and Lee "Sparky" Thomason (Temple College).
• Clinicians: Alex Parker (Baylor) and Clark Hunt (Guest Artist) will rotate for the clinic room.
• Ratings Option: You may choose to opt out of ratings and receive comments only. All students, regardless of ratings choice, are considered for All-Star Awards.

Spectator Admission & Concert

• Participating Students: Each participant receives 10 free tickets to their respective evening concert and awards ceremony.
• Evening Concert (7:30 PM): Admission for all extra students, spectators, family, and friends is $10.00. Purchase Tickets
• Daytime Performances: Admission to watch performances during the day is $5.00. Purchase Tickets
• Also offered: Concessions and professional ensemble photos.

Ensemble Categories

Divisions are based on the number of competing/performing ensembles per school:

• 1 Ensemble: Competes as Varsity.
• 2 Ensembles: Competes as Varsity and Non-Varsity.
• 3 Ensembles: Competes as Varsity, Non-Varsity, and Sub-Non Varsity.

Contact Information

Amanda Stevenson (Director)
Email: amarin2@neisd.net

"I hope that you take advantage of our efforts and support the festival by attending the events and encouraging others to enjoy your ensembles as well."