NCCU Jazz Combo 1 Wins Top Prize, Performs at Monterey Jazz Festival

North Carolina Central University's (NCCU)Jazz Combo 1 has won the 2nd annual Monterey Jazz HBCU competition.

With more than100 historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) across the United States, fewer than half have jazz bands or combos, making this achievement particularly significant. The jazz studies program is one of several distinguished areas at NCCU.

NCCU's Jazz Combo 1 performed at the Monterey Jazz Festival from Sept. 26-29, 2024, where they connected with top jazz musicians and influential business leaders supporting jazz education.

The Monterey Jazz Festival is the world's largest continually running jazz festival.

"Monterey was an exciting experience! The chance to play music on an international stage, meet world-renowned artists, and work alongside other young musicians is a rare opportunity. I am truly grateful," said Chrishawn Darby, a graduate student drummer.

"Being in the presence of great artists and historic culture has inspired me to continue playing jazz. One of the most impactful moments was my conversation with trumpeter Keyon Harrold, who told me, 'Whatever is in store for you is already yours.' That conversation gave me the courage and determination to strive for greatness," added Curtis Olawumi, a graduate student trumpeter.

Want to see jazz studies program in action right here in Durham? Support them at their weekly jam sessions at Missy Lane's Assembly Room, 310 E Main St., every Thursday from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. They will also host a Fall Jazz Festival on Nov. 18 - 23, 2024, and a Spring Jazz Festival on April 13 -18, 2025.

A playlist of songs performed at the Monterey Jazz Festival can be listened to here.