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 of Events:

Monday, March 24, 2025

East Carolina University School of Music
John Coltrane Combo Concert
Fletcher Music Center B110, 7:00 PM

Wednesday, March 26, 2025

East Carolina University School of Music
ECU Jazz Ensemble-(B)
Fletcher Music Center B110, 7:00 PM

Friday, March 28, 2025

East Carolina University School of Music
Billy Taylor Combo Concert
Fletcher Music Center B110, 7:00 PM

Saturday, March 29, 2025

ECU Billy Taylor Jazz Festival - Clinic and Masterclass
Clinicians: Jarrard Harris, alto sax - Alex Hightlinger - Trombone
Fletcher Music Center B110, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

ECU Billy Taylor Jazz Festival Concert
ECU Jazz Ensemble-(A) with special guest Andre Hayward
Wright Auditorium, 7:00 PM

Date:
March 24 - 29, 2025

Location:
East Carolina University,
E 5th Street,
Greenville, NC 27858

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