The Billy Taylor Jazz Festival began humbly, started and developed by ECU professor emeritus Carroll V. Dashiell, Jr., when high school and middle school jazz bands came to campus to perform at critiquing sessions, then to enjoy a performance by the ECU Jazz Ensemble A and a guest artist.

The festival grew rapidly. In 2003 Dr. Billy Taylor lent his name to the festival, and the Greenville Convention Center was retained to contain the audience who came for a gala evening, witness Mayor Don Parrott offer Taylor the Keys to the City, and hear him proclaim the day “Dr. Billy Taylor Day” on behalf of the City Council.

The festival now offers multiple public concerts, a free jam session, critiquing sessions for eight or more high school and middle school jazz bands, exceptional guest artists and opportunities for Jazz Friends to mingle and celebrate.

Schedule:

Monday, April 15, 2024

East Carolina University School of Music
ECU Jazz Combos Concert
Fletcher Music Room B110, 8:00PM

Wednesday April 17, 2024

East Carolina University School of Music
ECU Jazz Ensemble-(B)
Fletcher Room B110, 8:00PM

Friday, April 19, 2024

East Carolina University School of Music
Billy Taylor Combo
Fletcher Music Room B110, 8:00PM

Saturday, April 20, 2024

ECU Billy Taylor Jazz Festival Gala
ECU Jazz Ensemble-(A) with special guests Ron Blake, saxophone, and Bobby Broom, guitar
Wright Auditorium, 8:00PM

Date: April 15 - 20,2024

Location:

East Carolina University
E 5th Street
Greenville, NC 27858

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