Jazz students have been learning and growing at the Eau Claire Jazz Festival for decades. This year is even more dynamic than ever before. We’ve paired an impressive roster of adjudicators along with some of the most inspiring jazz icons to create an exceptional experience for your schools.
Adjudicators
We are proud to bring in nationally-known educators to adjudicate every band, regardless of division or competition status. Our adjudicators range from university directors to performers at the top of their field. 2027 Jazz Festival Adjudicators will be announced in early 2027!
Meet our 2026 Adjudicators
 Summer CamargoInternationally recognized jazz trumpeter and composer, Juilliard graduate, member of the Saturday Night Live house band, and rising jazz star who has performed at major venues, released a debut album, and adjudicated jazz festivals. |  Tom LuerRenowned jazz saxophonist and educator with a national performance career and extensive experience leading workshops, masterclasses, and adjudicating jazz ensembles. |  Dr. Aaron HedenstromComposer, saxophonist, and professor of jazz studies with a strong portfolio of performance, recording, and academic scholarship, often featured as clinician and adjudicator. |
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 Eric SongerActive performer and music educator with a background in jazz ensemble direction and adjudication, regularly leading workshops and curriculum development in secondary and collegiate settings. |  Greg ByersProfessional Cello/Bassist, educator, and jazz ensemble director whose work includes performance, recording, and supporting student growth in jazz improvisation and ensemble performance. |  Dr. Kevin KjosExperienced music professor and band director known for developing high‐level jazz programs, publishing pedagogical work, and serving as an adjudicator and clinician at major jazz events. |
 Dr. Jeff CrowellUniversity director of jazz studies and conductor with extensive experience in large ensemble leadership, research, and adjudication at state and national jazz festivals. |  Dr. Phillip OstranderBand director and clinician specializing in jazz and instrumental music education, recognized for ensemble achievement and student mentorship. |  Dennis LuginbillVeteran jazz director, and educator with significant performance credentials and experience adjudicating competitive jazz programs. |
 Elaine BurtDedicated jazz educator and ensemble director focused on student musicianship, leadership, and festival adjudication. |  Jeremy BoettcherJazz bassist, educator, and band director known for strong ensemble leadership and contributions to jazz education through clinics and adjudication. |  John GreeneAccomplished band director and music educator with decades of experience leading jazz and concert ensembles, clinician at regional festivals, and respected adjudicator. |
 Pete James JohnsonProfessional jazz artist, bandleader, and educator recognized for ensemble direction, improvisation expertise, and adjudication work in jazz education circuits. |  Phil HolmAccomplished music educator and adjudicator proficient in jazz and concert band direction with a record of ensemble success and festival leadership. |
Adjudicators for the 60th Annual Eau Claire Jazz Festival will be announced in early 2027
Honor Bands
Competitive big bands and combos are eligible to be designated as an honor band. All groups receiving the honor band title will perform on the Saturday night headliner concert!
Excellence in Jazz Education Award
All schools will have a chance to win free instruments courtesy of Schmitt Music! To enter to win, registered schools will need to fill out an application prior to the festival (will be emailed to all bands in early April). Winning schools will be announced at the awards ceremony at 4:30pm on Friday and Saturday!
