Austin, Texas — The Huston-Tillotson University Jazz Orchestra has been named one of ten collegiate ensembles nationwide selected to compete in the 2026 National Collegiate Jazz Championship at Jazz at Lincoln Center. The competition will take place January 17–18, 2026, inside Frederick P. Rose Hall in New York City, where students will perform in both big band and combo rounds, while being mentored by members of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra.
To ensure every student can participate in this national opportunity, Huston-Tillotson University has launched a fundraising effort to help offset travel and program-related expenses. Contributions may be made at https://tinyurl.com/HTJazzCollective.
“This invitation gives our students access to a stage that shapes the future of jazz,” said HT President and CEO Melva K. Wallace. “We want each member of the orchestra standing in that spotlight without financial strain. I’m asking our alumni, partners, and friends to join us in supporting this extraordinary moment for our students.”
Dr. Jeremy George, director of jazz studies and assistant professor of music at HT, said, “Huston-Tillotson University is deeply honored to compete on one of the nation’s most prestigious stages for collegiate jazz. As the only all-undergraduate program invited, our students have risen to the challenge with uncommon drive and artistry. Their work reflects the spirit of our historic HBCU and the enduring power of African American music. We are proud to show the nation what HTU musicians can do.”
More information about the National Collegiate Jazz Championship is available at jazz.org/ncjc.
About Huston-Tillotson University
Huston-Tillotson University, the first institution of higher education in Austin, Texas, has roots dating back to 1875. Huston-Tillotson University is an independent, church-related, historically Black, four-year liberal arts institution located on a 23-acre tree-lined campus near downtown in East Austin. Huston-Tillotson University’s mission is to nurture a legacy of leadership and excellence in education, connecting knowledge, power, passion, and values. The University offers associate and master’s degrees in addition to Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees in more than 19 areas of study. Huston-Tillotson University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
