Annual event expects nearly 90 student ensembles and world-renowned headliner to outdoor stages April 24–25
The sounds of saxophones, swinging rhythms and student talent from across the West Coast will once again fill the open-air promenade at the Palladio later this month as the California Jazz Championships return for their fourth annual event on April 24 and 25.
Now firmly established as one of the region’s premier youth music showcases, the championships will feature 89 jazz bands, jazz choirs and combo groups performing across five outdoor stages throughout the Palladio. The two-day event transforms the popular shopping and dining destination into a vibrant, walkable jazz festival where visitors can move from stage to stage and experience a wide range of performances throughout the day.
Presented in the spirit of European-style jazz festivals, the California Jazz Championships are free for the public to attend during daytime hours, offering continuous live music in an energetic yet accessible setting. The only ticketed portion of the weekend will be a special Friday evening concert on April 24, headlined by the internationally acclaimed Vanguard Jazz Orchestra, joined by the Live Performing Arts Academy Jazz Band and Jazz Choir. Tickets for the evening performance are $35.
The championships serve as the flagship event of the Live Performing Arts Academy, a nonprofit organization founded by Grammy-nominated music educator Curtis Gaesser and current Folsom High School music director Gaw Vang-Williams. Both educators have deep roots in the local music community and have helped shape the program into a platform that elevates student musicianship while fostering collaboration and growth.
“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome 90 ensembles from across the West Coast to this extraordinary event,” said Vang-Williams. “It is truly inspiring to witness so many talented young musicians come together, united by their passion for jazz and supported by the exceptional dedication of their educators. The level of artistry and commitment on display is a testament to the strength and vitality of jazz education today.”
Organizers say the event is designed to be more than just a competition, but also a shared cultural experience that brings together students, educators, families and the broader community in celebration of music.
Now in its third year at the Palladio, the championships have found a natural home in the venue’s open-air layout. The move from Historic Folsom allowed for expanded staging, improved logistics and a more immersive festival atmosphere for both performers and attendees.
Vang-Williams noted that this year’s event carries added excitement with the inclusion of a globally respected guest ensemble.
“We are especially honored and excited to feature the world-renowned and historic Vanguard Jazz Orchestra as our guest artist, bringing an added level of prestige and inspiration to the experience,” she said.
Behind the scenes, organizers credit a dedicated group of volunteers and community partners for helping bring the large-scale event to life each year.
“This event would not be possible without the incredible efforts of our volunteers,” Vang-Williams added. “Despite being a small team, their hard work, enthusiasm and unwavering commitment have been nothing short of remarkable. We are deeply grateful for everything they have done to help bring this celebration of music and community to life.”
She also acknowledged the role of local support in sustaining the event’s continued growth, pointing to the collaboration that has helped the championships expand in recent years.
“We would also like to extend our sincere gratitude to our host, Palladio, for providing such a welcoming and vibrant setting, as well as to all of our generous sponsors whose support has been instrumental in making this event possible,” she said. “Their commitment to the arts and to young musicians is deeply appreciated, and it plays a vital role in the success of this celebration.”
With nearly 90 ensembles scheduled, multiple stages operating simultaneously and a headline performance from one of the most respected jazz orchestras in the world, this year’s California Jazz Championships are expected to once again draw large crowds and showcase the next generation of musical talent in the heart of Folsom.
Copyright © 2026, Folsom Times, a digital product of All Town Media LLC. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, without the prior written permission of the publisher.
