Competitive student performances
Compete at the Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival
The Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival brings jazz masters together with elementary, junior high, high school and college students each year to share and celebrate a truly American art form.
Join us each spring for the annual Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival by registering your students for an adjudicated performance slot and clinic.
Register your entries
Registration for LHJF 2026 opens Oct. 1 to Jan. 19. Read about the details in our rules and regulations. Registration fees include participation in daytime LHJF competitions. Settle your registration invoice to receive a promo code for discounted concert tickets, which are sold separately.
- Solos: $75
- Combos: $180
- Large ensembles (10+ performers): $300
Prepare performance information forms
A performance information form is required for every entry. Blank forms will be provided at director check-in, or bring a completed copy using our fillable online form.
Submit activity waivers
We take safety seriously. An activity waiver is required for every student participating in the Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival. These online forms include a code of conduct and emergency contact information and must be submitted by a parent or guardian prior to March 1.
Look for the link in the auto-response following registration and in our “Dear Directors” e-newsletters.
Student performance schedule
The student performance schedule will be available for comment in early March. Keep an eye out for more information in our “Dear Directors” e-newsletter series.
Compete
Join the tradition of adjudicated student performances, clinics and workshops that aids in the development of young artists across the region.