1. Life at Simpson
  2. Ways to Get Involved
  3. Performing Arts
  4. Jazz Festival

Jazz Festival

Simpson College Jazz Festival 2026, January 22nd and January 23rd

About the SCJF

For over 20 years, the Simpson College Jazz Festival has become a staple for promoting jazz and jazz education in central Iowa and beyond! The event is open to all high school jazz ensembles and serves as a qualifying event for the Iowa Jazz Championships. Alternatively, bands are also welcome to participate for “Comments Only” or bring their student combos for non-competitive performance!

Held annually in January, the festival attracts some of the finest high school jazz ensembles in the state and prides itself on hosting some of the most renowned judges of any festival in Iowa.

Any questions or concerns about the festival can be addressed to the festival director Dr. Flint Angeroth Franks.

Registration is open!

Register

Registration is due by November 25th at 5pm. Late Registration is due by December 5th with a $50 late fee. Payment can be mailed to:

Simpson College Music Dept.
attn: Jazz Fest
701 N. C St.
Indianola, IA 50125

Registration will be limited to 17 groups per day; registrations received after we have met the limit will be placed on a waitlist.

Contact Us

If you have any questions about the Simpson College Jazz Festival, you may contact the following:

Festival Director
Dr. Flint Angeroth Franks: flint.angerothfranks@simpson.edu or or (515) 961-1637.

Music Office
musicatsimpson@simpson.edu

The 2026 Simpson College Jazz Festival will be held Thursday & Friday, January 22-23, 2026! ​ Daily Schedules will be released in December once registration closes.

Daily Schedules will be released in December once registration closes.

Send any emails to: Dr. Flint Angeroth Franks at
flint.angerothfranks@simpson.edu or call (515) 961-1637
Judges:
Our adjudicators will be announced in the coming weeks!
FAQ

Our adjudicators will be announced in the coming weeks!

Q: When are awards announced?

A: Awards will be announced via social media and email following the conclusion of the division performances. Only the top 3 places will be publicly announced.

Contact US