Eau Claire Jazz Festival Welcomes Stripling and Gordon

Two jazz legends to headline annual concert series at the Pablo Center

Apr. 17, 2026 at 12:00am

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An abstract, minimalist illustration composed of bold, angular shapes in shades of blue, yellow, and burgundy, conceptually representing the energy and artistry of a jazz performance.The 59th Eau Claire Jazz Festival promises an unforgettable weekend of virtuosic performances from two of the genre's most celebrated artists.Eau Claire Today

The 59th annual Eau Claire Jazz Festival will feature acclaimed trumpeter Byron Stripling and trombonist Wycliffe Gordon in a special collaborative performance with the GRAMMY®-nominated UW–Eau Claire Jazz Ensemble I. The two-night concert series will also showcase outstanding student musicians from the festival's competitions.

Why it matters

The Eau Claire Jazz Festival is a longstanding tradition that celebrates the art form and provides a platform for both established and emerging jazz talent. Bringing in world-renowned artists like Stripling and Gordon helps elevate the festival's profile and provides a unique opportunity for the local community to experience jazz virtuosity.

The details

Stripling and Gordon will join the UW–Eau Claire Jazz Ensemble I for a series of collaborative performances over the festival's two-night concert series. In addition, the shows will feature award-winning student musicians from the Eau Claire Jazz Festival competitions.

  • The 59th annual Eau Claire Jazz Festival will take place on the UW–Eau Claire campus from April 17-18, 2026.
  • The concert series featuring Stripling and Gordon will be held on Friday, April 17 and Saturday, April 18 at 7:30pm.

The players

Byron Stripling

An internationally recognized trumpeter known for his virtuosity, warmth, and deep connection to jazz tradition.

Wycliffe Gordon

A celebrated trombonist who is also renowned for his technical mastery and joyful expression of the jazz art form.

UW–Eau Claire Jazz Ensemble I

The GRAMMY®-nominated university jazz ensemble that will collaborate with Stripling and Gordon during the concert series.

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What they’re saying

“We're thrilled to welcome two of the biggest names in jazz to our stage for this year's festival. Stripling and Gordon are true masters of their craft, and their collaboration with our talented student musicians is sure to be an unforgettable experience for our community.”

— Dr. Robert Johnson, Director, Eau Claire Jazz Festival

What’s next

Tickets for the 59th Annual Eau Claire Jazz Festival Concert Series featuring Byron Stripling and Wycliffe Gordon are on sale now through the Pablo Center box office and website.

The takeaway

The Eau Claire Jazz Festival continues to attract world-class talent, providing the local community with an opportunity to experience the highest levels of jazz performance and education. This year's concert series with Stripling and Gordon promises to be a highlight of the festival's storied history.