The Greenwich High School Music Department, in partnership with the GHS Band Boosters, is proud to present the 39th Annual Essentially Ellington Jazz Festival on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at the Greenwich High School’s Performing Arts Center.
Tickets and additional event information – including the full schedule and access to the Facebook livestream – are available online. Attendees may purchase tickets or make a donation in advance.
Just weeks ahead of Jazz Appreciation Month in April (often called “JAM”), this cherished community tradition of nearly four decades returns with a full-day celebration of jazz featuring outstanding student ensembles, distinguished guest clinicians, and world-class performers in an immersive musical experience open to the public.
This year’s festival will spotlight acclaimed local artist Joyce DiCamillo’s Trio, joined by special guest artists John Mastroianni (saxophone), Tony Kadleck (trumpet), and Mariel Bildsten (trombone). Together, they promise an inspiring showcase of artistry, improvisation, and the enduring spirit of jazz.
The day will unfold with a dynamic schedule of performances, educational masterclasses, and featured concerts. Visiting jazz bands from across Connecticut, New York, and Quebec, Canada will take the stage throughout the morning and afternoon, sharing their passion, talent, and dedication to this uniquely American art form.
Educational masterclasses led by top-tier professional clinicians will offer young musicians invaluable instruction across all jazz instruments. This year’s masterclass faculty includes Joyce DiCamillo (piano), Yoshi Waki (bass), Thierry Arpino (drums), Tony Kadleck (trumpet), Mariel Bildsten (trombone), and John Mastroianni (alto saxophone).
The day begins at 8:30am with the Central Middle School Jazz Ensemble, highlighting the next generation of local jazz musicians. The Greenwich High School Jazz Lab Band follows at 9:30am, continuing the morning’s showcase of student talent. Instrument-specific masterclasses begin at 12:00pm, giving participating students the opportunity to learn directly from visiting professional musicians.
Joyce DiCamillo’s Trio
At 1:00pm, the Performing Arts Center will host a featured performance by Joyce DiCamillo’s Trio and special guest artists. The festival concludes at 5:30 PM with performances by Greenwich High School’s acclaimed jazz ensembles, celebrating the school’s longstanding tradition of musical excellence.
Food will be available for purchase throughout the day.
The Greenwich High School Music Department and GHS Band Boosters gratefully acknowledge the generous sponsors and families whose support makes the Essentially Ellington Jazz Festival possible. Their commitment to arts education helps provide meaningful performance and learning opportunities for student musicians throughout our community, offering all who attend the opportunity to experience the mesmerizing power of jazz firsthand, feel its rhythm, spontaneity, and soul, and be inspired by the artistry and joy that live music can ignite.
Festival Access & Information
Complete festival details – including tickets, merchandise, the full event schedule, Facebook-Livestream access, and Business Sponsorship opportunities – are available on the 39th Annual Essential Ellington Facebook events page.
Screenshot