Penn State Jazz Festival

n unforgettable week of world-class jazz, innovation, and artistry

School of Music

The Pennsylvania State University

Allen Rd, University Park, PA 16802

Wednesday, April 8 | 7:30 p.m. | Jazz Combos and Vardan Ovsepian | Esber Recital Hall

The Penn State Jazz Festival kicks off on Wednesday, April 8 at 7:30 p.m., launching four days of extraordinary performances featuring acclaimed artists, rising talent, and bold musical exploration. The opening night showcases five dynamic jazz combos, each offering their own distinctive voice, alongside the dazzling artistry of guest pianist and synthesizer innovator Vardan Ovsepian. Originally from Armenia and now based in Los Angeles, Ovsepian serves as Co-Director of Jazz at CalArts. A recipient of the Achava Jazz Award and a Chamber Music America Grant, his performances blend virtuosity with deep musical storytelling. Thursday, April 9 | 7:00–9:00 p.m.| Pine Grove Hall

Thursday, April 9 | 7 – 9 p.m. | Ovsepian/Whitfield/Davis | Pine Grove Hall

An intimate evening featuring Ovsepian alongside PSU Jazz Director Joshua Davis and internationally acclaimed drummer Mark Whitfield Jr., currently touring with leading figures in modern jazz. The evening also welcomes special appearances by Dr. David Stambler, Dr. Ben Carrasquillo and outstanding PSU student artists.

Friday, April 10 | 7:30 p.m. | Vocal Dimensions, HypoCLock, Jensen/Ovsepian/Whitfield/Davis | Recital Hall

A vibrant night of vocal and instrumental brilliance follows an afternoon of rehearsals and invitational jam sessions with Ovsepian, Whitfield Jr., Eastman School of Music Big Band Director Christine Jensen, and PSU Jazz Director Joshua Davis.

Vocal Dimensions opens with New Orleans-inspired classics and a traditional front-line band. The evening continues with Ovsepian and the HypoClock Combo, culminating in a powerful collaboration featuring Christine Jensen (Eastman School of Music), joined by Whitfield and Davis for an electrifying small-group finale.

Saturday, April 11 | 3:00 p.m. | Inner and Centre Dimensions with Christine Jensen and Mark Whitfield Jr. | Recital Hall

The festival closes with a spectacular showcase by Inner and Centre Dimensions, highlighting the bold big band compositions of 2024 Juno Award winner Christine Jensen, paired with the explosive drumming of Mark Whitfield Jr.

This year’s festival features Saturday morning Recital Hall appearances high school student performances and adjudications by nationally-known composer, arranger and jazz educator Rick Hirsch.

Masterclasses and jam sessions are spotlight events throughout the day Saturday, led by Penn State faculty and guest artists. Times and locations are listed below.

All events are free, unticketed, open to the public, and hosted at the Penn State School of Music on the University Park campus.

Minors must be accompanied by adults.