ColaJazz

06/18/2026

🎷🌟 Exciting news! The Colajazz Foundation has been nominated for the 2026 The State’s Best Contest, and voting is now open through Friday, June 19 at 5 PM!

This recognition reflects the passion, creativity, and support of our incredible community. We’re deeply grateful to everyone who has helped us share the transformative power of jazz, arts, culture, and education. ❤️

Every vote helps amplify our mission and supports the work we do to inspire, educate, and connect through the arts.

🗳️ Cast your vote today: www.votethestate.com

Thank you for being part of the Colajazz family!

06/17/2026

Celebrate freedom, community, and the soulful sounds of jazz at the ColaJazz Juneteenth Celebration! We’re bringing the rhythm to the heart of Columbia for an evening of incredible live music, local flavors, and family fun.

Location: Finlay Park, Columbia, SC
Cost: FREE and open to the public
Vibe: Family-friendly, outdoors, and high-energy!

The Main Stage Lineup
Grab your lawn chairs and blankets—you won't want to miss this incredible roster of talent:
5:30 PM – 6:30 PM Rod Brown Quartet
6:45 PM – 7:45 PM AP & Soulful Touché
8:00 PM – 9:00 PM Nahi Gruv

Food & Fun
Come hungry! We’ll have a variety of food trucks serving up local favorites and beverage trucks to keep you cool throughout the evening. Whether you're here for the jazz, the groove, or the community spirit, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy.

What is Juneteenth?
Juneteenth (short for "June Nineteenth") marks the day in 1865 when federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to ensure that all enslaved people be freed. This came a full two and a half years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation.

Today, Juneteenth is a federal holiday—a day to honor African American freedom, celebrate resilience, and reflect on the ongoing journey toward equality. There’s no better way to honor that legacy than through the universal language of music!
We can't wait to see you at Finlay Park!

06/16/2026

Calling all jazz musicians! The next Downtown Jazz Jam is happening Sunday, July 5, 2026, from 6–8 PM at Slow Play Brewing in Rock Hill, SC.

Musicians of all ages and skill levels are welcome to sit in and play. Bring your instrument, amp (if needed), music stand, and Real Book. A drum set, bass amp, and small PA system will be provided.

Expect an evening of jazz standards, swing, Latin, blues, R&B, and more. Whether you're a seasoned player or just getting started, this is a great opportunity to gain experience, connect with fellow musicians, and have fun making music together.

Not a musician? Come enjoy the music for FREE! Relax with great jazz, food and drinks available for purchase, and indoor or outdoor seating. Friendly leashed dogs are welcome.

📍 Slow Play Brewing
274 Columbia Ave, Rock Hill, SC
🅿️ Free parking available

"We have our core group of musicians set for July 5, and we hope other players will join us," says organizer Tim Hartis. "Folks visiting for Independence Day weekend are welcome to come out and listen for free."

For more information, contact Tim Hartis at 803-230-1967.

06/15/2026

🎷✨ The Colajazz Foundation has been nominated for the 2026 The State’s Best Contest, and voting is officially underway! Voting is open now through June 19 at 5:00 PM.

We’re honored to be recognized and grateful for the incredible support from our community that helped make this possible. ❤️

Now it’s time to celebrate the power of jazz, arts, culture, and education by casting your vote and helping us continue our mission.

🗳️ Vote here: www.votethestate.com

06/14/2026

06/14/2026

The 2026 ColaJazz & Roots Fest presented by Palmetto Citizens was a massive success! Thank you all. We'd love to see you at our next jazz event. Visit: https://colajazz.com

06/12/2026

We LOVE what we do... and this isn't even all of it.
SIGN UP: https://colajazz.com/newsletter

From concerts of all shapes and sizes to educational outreach, SC Public Radio shows, private lessons, rehearsal space and so much more... ColaJazz SERVES. We are here for you.

06/11/2026

ColaJazz Summer Jazz Camp 2026 | June 15 – 18 🔥

Give your middle or high schooler the ultimate creative edge this summer. For a decade, the ColaJazz Summer Jazz Camp has been the premier destination for young musicians to find their voice, master their craft, and learn the business of being an artist.

Whether they are just starting their jazz journey or preparing for college auditions, our 10th-anniversary program is designed to inspire.

Dates: Monday, June 15 – Thursday, June 18
Daily Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Grand Finale Concert: Thursday, June 18 | 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM

🤩 Watch your camper shine on the big stage! Tuition includes 2 complimentary tickets for family and friends.

Dreher High School 3319 Millwood Avenue, Columbia, SC 29205 Our host location offers wonderful facilities to practice, learn, and play. Parents love the convenient and FREE parking and easy access for morning drop-offs.

Everything Included: Your tuition is all-inclusive. We provide a daily fresh lunch, all daytime activities, masterclasses, and concert access.

R1 students attend FREE! Just let your band director know.

🎶 Tuition: $335
Scholarship Opportunities: A limited number of need-based scholarships are available to ensure talented students can attend; we encourage early inquiry as these spots fill quickly.