The 2025 Green Bay Jazz Festival will take place March 31 – April 5, with specially curated events celebrating Jazz and highlighting the musicians that make the music happen. It continues UW-Green Bay’s 55-year tradition of providing student musicians from around the state with masterclass learning and performance opportunities with UW-Green Bay Professors and musicians.

Don’t miss the headline concert on April 5 at the Weidner Center, featuring Grammy®-nominated composer, arranger, and educator John La Barbera.

Schedule of Events

April 03, 2025

6:00pm

Mingus Fest

featuring Green Bay Jazz Orchestra & Mingus Combo

Mingus Fest celebrates the life and music of legendary bassist/composer/bandleader Charles Mingus (1922-1979).

Born at Luna Cafe in 2001, Mingus fest boasts the same core group for over 20 years: Nick Utrie (guitar), Cully Swansen (bass), Steve Johnson (reeds), James LeFevre (percussion), and special guest Adam Gaines (trumpet).

Charles Mingus Jr. was an American jazz upright bassist, composer, bandleader, pianist, and author. A major proponent of collective improvisation, he is considered to be one of the greatest jazz musicians and composers in history.

Event is Free to Attend & Open to the Public

Date: March 31 - April 5, 2025