Southern Utah University announced the 2027 audition dates for its music department and details for the 14th annual SUU High School Jazz Festival. The jazz festival is scheduled to take place on Saturday, February 20, 2027, at the Heritage Center in Cedar City, Utah, and will feature an evening concert with SUU Jazz Ensemble One and guest artist Dr. Jed Blodgett.
Jazz Festival Details
The 14th annual SUU High School Jazz Festival aims to assist high schools in preparing for regional jazz events. Under its unique format, participating schools are allotted a full 50 minutes on stage for an adjudicated performance. This is followed by a comprehensive on-stage clinic involving three experts.
Festival Schedule and Venue
The festival's schedule includes morning clinics and sessions from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., followed by an improvisation clinic at 1:00 p.m. Afternoon clinics and sessions are scheduled from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The day concludes with an evening concert at 7:30 p.m. in the brand new Eccles Music Center, Okerlund Concert Hall, featuring SUU Jazz Ensemble One and guest artist Dr. Jed Blodgett.
Awards and Registration
During the jazz festival, outstanding sections from the day's events will be recognized with awards. Additionally, a select group of outstanding soloists will be invited to perform during the evening concert. Registration for the event is set at $120 per band.
Music Department Auditions
Southern Utah University has also released the 2027 audition schedule for prospective music majors, minors, and participants. Auditions for music department ensembles are open to all students, though specific ensemble sites provide additional details regarding audition requirements.
2027 Audition Schedule
The 2027 audition dates include several sessions held at the Southern Utah University Eccles Music Center (EMC). These include sessions for the SUU Honor Band/Choir only on January 8, 2027, and for the SUU Honor Orchestra on January 29, 2027. Other audition dates at the EMC are scheduled for February 13, 2027, and March 6, 2027.
Additional Audition Locations
Other audition locations for 2027 include Copper Hills High School in West Jordan, Utah, on February 19, 2027, and Southern Nevada Music in Las Vegas, Nevada, on February 26, 2027.
Application Process
To apply to the music program as a music major, minor, or participant, students must apply to the university and schedule an entrance or scholarship audition. Inquiries regarding the music department can be directed to 435-586-7890 or via email at musicauditions@suu.edu.
