Jazz Madrigal Festival

The NAU Jazz Madrigal Festival is a non-competitive, rated event for vocal jazz and madrigal ensembles of all skill levels. Sponsored by NAU’s Choral Studies and the NAU Student Chapter of the American Choral Directors Association, this annual festival brings together university and community ensembles for a weekend of performance, feedback, and inspiration.

Check back for this upcoming year’s event details.

What to expect

The Jazz Madrigal Festival usually takes place over three days in early February, and is held on the NAU campus and surrounding venues in Flagstaff, Arizona.

The event is open to vocal jazz and madrigal ensembles. Groups may choose whether or not to receive a rating.

• Ratings include: I (superior), II (excellent), III (good), IV (needs attention)
• All groups will receive a commemorative plaque.

Performance details

• Each ensemble receives a 25-minute time slot (includes performance, clinic, and transitions).
• Perform up to 3 selections (around 12 minutes total).
• Madrigal groups may sing any chamber-style music, with or without accompaniment.
• Equipment varies by venue, but includes risers, pianos, microphones, and standard jazz gear.
• Sound equipment is provided, but pre-recorded accompaniments are not allowed.
• Accompanists or rhythm sections from NAU may be available upon request.

Registration and fees

• Registration typically opens in the fall.
• $300 per ensemble
• There is a two-ensemble limit per director during initial registration.
• Additional groups may be considered later if space allows.

Festival sites and clinicians

The festival features multiple adjudication sites for both jazz and madrigal groups. Performances are evaluated by nationally recognized clinicians who rotate between sites.

Past clinicians have included:

• Dr. Derrick Fox – Michigan State University
• Dr. Cari Earnhart – California State University, Fresno
• Dr. Kate Skinner – University of Idaho
• Members of The Real Group – Swedish world renowned a cappella group
• Bruce Rogers – Professor Emeritus, Mt. San Antonio College

Host concerts

The festival often includes evening concerts featuring professional artists and NAU ensembles. In past years, The Real Group and the NAU Shrine of the Ages Choir have performed, with ticketed evening concerts and free mid-day performances by NAU’s vocal jazz group High Altitude.

High school senior music major auditions

Auditions for high school seniors interested in becoming music majors at NAU are held during the festival. Students must apply and be accepted to the university before scheduling an audition.

To learn more about audition options, contact music@nau.edu.

Want to participate?

Check back in early fall for registration updates and deadlines.

Have more questions?

Contact Shannon Spark, Academic Program Coordinator, NAU Choral Studies at (928) 523-9949