Austin, Texas / New York, New York – The Huston–Tillotson University (HT) Jazz Orchestra earned Third Place overall at the prestigious 2026 National Collegiate Jazz Competition, held at Jazz at Lincoln Center and hosted by renowned jazz icon Wynton Marsalis in New York City.
Selected from hundreds of collegiate jazz programs nationwide, only 10 bands were invited to compete. Huston-Tillotson University stood out as the smallest institution selected, the only all-undergraduate ensemble, and one of just two Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the competition. HT was also one of two Texas institutions chosen to perform, alongside the University of Texas at Austin.
Competition Results
- 1st Place: Temple University (Philadelphia, PA)
- 2nd Place: Michigan State University (East Lansing, MI)
- 3rd Place: Huston-Tillotson University (Austin, TX)
In addition to its Third Place finish, the HT Jazz Orchestra received more than 10 individual and sectional awards, underscoring the exceptional talent and preparation of its student musicians.
Major Awards & Recognitions
- Third Place Overall
- Honorable Mention Rhythm Section
- Honorable Mention Saxophone Section
- Outstanding Trombone Section
- Outstanding Piano – Joshua Lister
- Outstanding Bass – Jordan Clark
- Outstanding Alto Saxophone – Sanai Hayman-Jallow
- Outstanding Tenor Saxophone – Makale Edwards
- Honorable Mention Tenor Saxophone – Xavier Linton
- Outstanding Trombone – Joshua Garcia
- Honorable Mention Trombone – Jordan Jacques
- Earl Hines Outstanding Musician Award – Joshua Garcia
Jeremy George, Director of Jazz Studies at Huston-Tillotson University, emphasized the significance of the achievement.
“Only 10 bands are selected from hundreds of college jazz programs across the country. For our students to stand among them and earn third place is extraordinary,” said George.
HT President Dr. Melva K. Wallace praised the students, faculty, and supporters of the program.
“This remarkable achievement speaks volumes about the talent, discipline, and determination of our students and the visionary leadership of our faculty,” said President Wallace. “To stand on a national stage at Jazz at Lincoln Center, alongside some of the most established programs in the country, affirms Huston-Tillotson University’s growing impact in the arts and our commitment to excellence.”
The success of the Huston–Tillotson University Jazz Orchestra reflects the strength of the university’s music program, the dedication of its students, and the unwavering support of HT leadership, faculty, and staff.
About Huston-Tillotson University
Huston-Tillotson University, the first institution of higher education in Austin, Texas, has roots dating back to 1875. HT 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) to award associate, baccalaureate and master’s degrees. HT is also an NC-SARA school. For more information, please visit www.htu.edu.
