The HBCU Jazz Combo Challenge is Back

Monterey Jazz Festival is thrilled to announce MJF’s 3rd annual HBCU Jazz Combo Challenge!

Monterey Jazz Festival is thrilled to announce the return of our 3rd annual Historically Black College and University (HBCU) Jazz Combo Challenge that will be featured on our YouTube channel! The winner and two Honorable Mention Ensembles will be selected. The winner will be invited to perform at the 68th Monterey Jazz Festival happening September 26-28, 2025!

Check out the competition guidelines

Registration will begin in October 14, 2024. Registered jazz combos must submit a video of their performance and a completed personnel list and set list by December 13, 2024.

HBCU Jazz Combo Challenge Registration Form

Submitted videos will be featured on YouTube for public viewing and voting. The three videos with the highest number of votes will move forward in the competition to be reviewed by Monterey Jazz adjudicators. Final winner will be chosen by the adjudicator panel. The winner will be announced on our website and social media.

Good luck to all the participants! We can’t wait to see your video submissions 🎶

Congratulations to North Carolina Central University, 2024 winner of the HBCU Jazz Combo Challenge and featured MJF67 performer!

The NCCU Jazz Combo I from Durham, North Carolina, directed by Prof. Robert Trowers, appeared at the 67th Monterey Jazz Festival. Honorable Mentions went to jazz combos from Huston-Tillotson University Jazz Combo and Elizabeth City State University Jazz Ensemble.

The HBCU Jazz Combo Challenge was introduced in 2023 to bring up-and-coming HBCU jazz talent to the Monterey Jazz Festival through online submissions. You continue to  inspire us!