Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz presents: 2019 International Guitar Competition & All-Star Gala Concert

Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz
International Guitar Competition & All-Star Gala Concert

The Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz International Competition is recognized as the most prestigious jazz competition in the world, launching the careers of jazz sensations including Joshua Redman, Jane Monheit, Cécile McLorin Salvant, Tierney Sutton, Joey DeFrancesco, Chris Potter, Gretchen Parlato, Ambrose Akinmusire, Ben Williams, and many others. Formerly known as the Thelonious Monk Institute Competition, the 2019 Competition will feature the guitar and will be judged by an illustrious panel including Pat Metheny, Lee Ritenour, Jon Scofield, Stanley Jordan, Russell Malone, and Chico Pinheiro. The Finals will feature three gifted young guitarists selected from more than a dozen semifinalists as they compete for over $150,000 in scholarships and prizes, including a guaranteed recording contract with Concord Music Group.

The evening will conclude with an All-Star Gala Concert and the presentation of the Institute's esteemed Founder's Award to renowned trumpeter and composer Terence Blanchard. The program will feature performances by Institute Chairman Herbie Hancock, NEA Jazz Master Dee Dee Bridgewater, and many more. John Beasley will serve as Musical Director. All proceeds from the Gala Concert will support the Institute's public school jazz education programs in Washington, DC and across the country.

Performance Timing: Approximately two hours, without intermission.