The University of Idaho will host the 59th annual Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival from April 22 to April 25, bringing thousands of students and educators to Moscow for four days dedicated to jazz performances, workshops, and celebrations.
The festival is an important event for the university and the broader community as it provides opportunities for student musicians to participate in adjudicated performances while also offering a range of public activities. Attendees can take part in free workshops such as disco and tap-dancing classes, yoga sessions, and presentations on topics like anime’s connections to jazz.
Headlining performers this year include Tito Puente Jr., Jazzmeia Horn, and Something Else!, who will not only perform during evening concerts but also host Meet the Artist sessions with students. These sessions are designed to give participants a chance for personal interaction with accomplished musicians.
The schedule features several evening concerts: Hamp’s Gala opens the festival on Wednesday at the Administration Building Auditorium with student ensembles; Thursday’s World Music Celebration at ICCU Arena includes performances by Tito Puente Jr., Summer Camargo, U of I jazz groups under Vern Sielert and Dan Bukvich, and more; Friday features Grammy-nominated vocalist Jazzmeia Horn alongside Warren Wolf; Saturday concludes with soul jazz group Something Else! led by Vincent Herring and the Lionel Hampton Big Band featuring Jason Marsalis.
Tickets for Hamp’s Gala are free. Other ticketed events cost between $50-$70, available through the Bruce M. Pitman Center Box Office or online at uitickets.com. University of Idaho students can receive a discount on tickets while supplies last. A clear bag policy applies at all ICCU Arena events.
More information about the festival is available at uidaho.edu/jazzfest.
