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17th Annual Charles Mingus Festival! Feb 14-16, 2025


Application and more info here! https://charlesmingus.org

Let My Children Hear Music (The Charles Mingus Institute) and Dr. Keller Coker of the School of Jazz & Contemporary Music at The New School are excited to announce the 17th Annual Charles Mingus Festival & High School Competition, founded in 2008 by NEA Jazz Master Sue Mingus.

The Competition/Festival weekend includes optional Friday and essential Saturday workshops and masterclasses at The New School, run by veteran Mingus repertory musicians and educators, a full day Sunday of Competition performances, special Mingus Big Band concerts, and numerous opportunities to immerse in the sights and sounds of New York City.

In addition, at least one $25,000 tuition scholarship to The New School will be awarded in the name of Charles Mingus, to a graduating senior participating in the Festival. Award will be based on Competition performance, and application and acceptance to The New School’s Jazz & Contemporary Music program.

Outstanding soloists from the Competition are invited to sit in on Sunday with Mingus Big Band, performing at Joe’s Pub Saturday and Sunday.

Can’t make it to New York City? You can still participate!

Each school receives Mingus music for study and expert feedback from Mingus musicians and educators. There is also a “Comment-Only” option available this year!

All events are open to the public, daytime events are FREE.

For the concerts at Joe’s Pub, all proceeds after expenses will be donated to Let My Children Hear Music (The Charles Mingus Institute) to support The Charles Mingus Festival and High School Competition and other educational projects.

We invite sponsorship to help subsidize student expenses and enhance their experience!

Donations may also be made here: https://www.paypal.me/mingusinstitute or contact us at 212-736-4749 info@charlesmingus.com

Earlier Event: January 24
Mingus Dynasty at Zinc Bar