UNLV's jazz studies program has, for the ninth consecutive year, been invited to attend the Monterey Next Generation Jazz Festival. The festival, which draws top student musicians from around the world, will be held March 9-11 in Monterey, California.

UNLV jazz students will be among the exceptional university ensembles from across the nation performing in one of the most prestigious festivals for young jazz musicians.

"We are extremely proud of our talented and gifted students," said Dave Loeb, director of UNLV jazz studies.

UNLV Jazz Ensemble I, conducted by Loeb and Nathan Tanouye, as well as the UNLV Honors Trio, were selected through a rigorous audition process by a distinguished panel of judges to compete in the College Big Band and Open Combo divisions, respectively.

The UNLV Joe Williams Every Day Foundation Scholarship Jazz Combo was invited to participate as special guest performers.

In addition, UNLV Jazz Ensemble I tied for first in the College Big Band division at last year's event, and was invited to perform at the prestigious Monterey Jazz Festival held in September 2017. 

The UNLV jazz studies program has been active for more than 45 years. Since its inception, the jazz program has received outstanding reviews from critics, including a five-star rating from the internationally respected jazz publication, DownBeat magazine.

With more than 20 recordings to its credit, the UNLV Jazz Ensemble has performed across the U.S., including the Hawaii International Jazz Festival, Telluride Jazz Festival, the Kennedy Center, and the Village Vanguard.