Tri-C JazzFest DownBeat Education Days

The Tri-C JazzFest DownBeat Education Days is an annual event dedicated to the education and appreciation of jazz, reaching more than 300 students in Ohio and the surrounding states each year. Since 1980, Tri-C JazzFest Cleveland has provided unique educational opportunities for our region's students and the teachers who have had a lasting impact on musicians in our community. Northeast Ohio is increasingly well-represented in the jazz world by the many our programs have touched over the years.

The Education Days experience includes adjudicated performances by world-class musicians and features clinics and workshops in improvisation, technique and various styles. Past teaching artists have included John Clayton, Geri Allen, Rodney Whitaker, Carl Allen, Ingrid Jensen, Quincy Phillips, Alan Baylock and Braxton Cook, among many others.

Last spring, we hosted Education Days with the Count Basie Orchestra in residence, allowing 400 students and teachers to play for, listen to and hang out with this legendary band. Stay tuned for the 2026 upcoming teaching artists!

Save the Date: Tri-C JazzFest DownBeat Education Days | March 18-19, 2026

DownBeat Education Days Daily Schedule:

9 a.m. – noon | Adjudicated Performances and Improvisation Clinics
Noon – 12:30 p.m. | Lunch (provided by Tri-C)
12:30 – 1:15 p.m. | Instrumental and Vocal Sectionals
1:15 – 2 p.m. | Concert Performance

Registration
The registration fee includes recordings of each participating ensemble's performance at the event, ensemble adjudications and on-stage clinic, and access to performances and workshops. Lunch is provided for all students, directors and chaperones.

For more information, email karah.vance@tri-c.edu or call 216-987-4574.