This inaugural competition features ensembles from ten of the most well-regarded university jazz programs in the country. The two-day event will culminate in this final concert featuring the top-placing ensembles in a live final round of competition, followed by a set performed by the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra in Rose Theater

Named for Jack Rudin, founding supporter of our signature Essentially Ellington High School Jazz Band Competition and Festival, this event will celebrate the excellence and achievements of the next generation of jazz musicians.

2020 Participating Universities:

California State University, Northridge (Northridge, CA)

University of Northern Colorado (Greeley, CO)

University of North Texas (Denton, TX)

Indiana University (Bloomington, IN)

Michigan State University (East Lansing, MI)

Eastman School of Music (Rochester, NY)

North Carolina Central University (Durham, NC)

Temple University (Philadelphia, PA)

The Juilliard School (New York, NY)

The Manhattan School of Music (New York, NY)

Generous support for the Jack Rudin Jazz Championship is provided by Jody and John Arnhold.