The UNCSA Improvised Music and Jazz Festival returns to downtown Winston-Salem for a second year, bigger, better and bolder. Enjoy two full days of free music and community celebration featuring regional high school and middle school bands, UNCSA student musicians, master classes with acclaimed artists, jam sessions and immersive jazz experiences throughout the day.

This two-day festival begins at 1 p.m. each day with free daytime events and performances. Tickets required only for the 7:30 p.m. headlining concerts on both evenings.

The festival will culminate each evening with a paid headlining concert featuring internationally recognized guest artists, offering audiences an unforgettable showcase of innovation and artistry.

This year’s featured guest artists include saxophonist Eddie Barbash, guitarist Mike Baggetta and Grammy-nominated violinist and fiddle innovator Casey Driessen. Together, they represent a dynamic cross section of contemporary improvised music, blending jazz, Americana, experimental and global influences.

Mark your calendar now for this exciting weekend of improvisation and captivating sound. The festival is organized by Steve Alford, chair of the Jazz and Contemporary Music Department in the School of Music.