Festival Adjudication

Adjudication is a form of listening with consequence.

In educational jazz festivals, a few minutes of feedback can shape how young musicians understand themselves, their ensemble, and the music itself. I approach this role with care, precision, and restraint—balancing high standards with context, and critique with encouragement.

My adjudication practice is grounded in decades of experience as a performer, composer, and educator. I listen for sound, time, balance, and form—but also for intention, risk-taking, and collective awareness. The goal is not ranking for its own sake, but clarity: helping directors and students understand what is working, what is emerging, and what deserves further attention.

Feedback is offered with specificity and respect. Language matters. So does tone. Young musicians deserve honesty without theatrics, and guidance that invites growth rather than compliance.

Selected Educational Jazz Festival Adjudication

Manchester High School Jazz Festival (2017; annually since 2008)
Brandon University Jazz Festival, Brandon, Manitoba, Canada (2016, 2004, 2001)
Loyola University Jazz Festival, New Orleans, LA (2015)
Norwalk High School Jazz Festival, Norwalk, CT (2015)
Optimist International Band Festival, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada (2012, 2001)
New Hampshire Band Directors Association Jazz Clinic, Hollis, NH (2012)
Keyano College Jazz Festival, Fort McMurray, Alberta, Canada (2005, 2003, 2000)
Jazz Works Festival, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada (2005, 2001)
Brien McMahon High School Jazz Festival, Norwalk, CT (2004)
Southington High School Jazz Festival, Southington, CT (2004, 2002, 2001)
Central Connecticut Youth Jazz Festival, Meriden, CT (2003)
Griswold Jazz Festival, Griswold High School, Jewett City, CT (2003)