Next Generation Jazz Festival

FESTIVAL DATES: April 3-5, 2020 and September 25-27, 2020

Thank you for your interest in applying to the Monterey Jazz Festival's Next Generation Jazz Festival (NGJF). We look forward to receiving your materials and wish you every success with your application!

WHY APPLY?
The Next Generation Jazz Festival is one of the most inclusive festivals in the United States.  This “Super Bowl of jazz education” welcomes performances by middle, high school and collegiate groups of every kind: big bands, combos, vocal ensembles, as well as conglomerate bands. The winners in each high school and collegiate division are invited to perform at the Monterey Jazz Festival in September. 

1. Hear and play with the best student performers in the country
2. Learn tips and techniques in workshops led by the pros
3. Get their minds blown by our star-studded judges band
4. Receive detailed and thoughtful critique from our experienced adjudicators
5. Jam for each other and the locals throughout downtown Monterey
6. Share their music with jazz fans around the world via Web stream.

IS MY GROUP ELIGIBLE TO APPLY?

The Next Generation Jazz Festival is open to performing groups in the following categories:

1. Middle School Big Band (to play on a local Spotlight Stage)
2. High School Big Band, Combo, Vocal Ensemble and Big Band Composer
3. Conglomerate High School Big Band and Combo (to perform at MJF in September)
4. College Big Band, Combo and Vocal Ensemble (to perform at MJF in September)

To be eligible, all groups should have received a superior or first division rating at a festival within the last 12 months. All high school ensemble members must be full-time registered students in the schools/programs they represent. College students must be enrolled ¾ time (or nine credit hours) at the college they represent.  

Please note that application fees are only required for the first category in which you apply. If you wish to apply for multiple categories, please enter the following "coupon code" on the payment screen of any subsequent submission: 02ngjf05. Please note that your first application must be paid before the coupon code will work. 

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Sunday, January 12, 2020

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

For guideline or requirement questions, call the Monterey Jazz Festival at 831-373-8843. 

 For technical questions please contact the Acceptd Support Team at support@getacceptd.com or by calling 1-888-725-2122. Check out our Help Desk for frequently asked questions.