SWOSU Press Release
Weatherford, OK – The 55th annual SWOSU Jazz Festival is coming up on Feb. 13–14 in Weatherford, Okla. A tradition spanning over five decades, the festival is one of the region’s most anticipated music events, drawing high school musicians, jazz enthusiasts, and acclaimed performers. This year’s schedule includes workshops, performances, and opportunities to enjoy music from both emerging and celebrated artists.
Featured Performers
The legendary Count Basie Orchestra, directed by Scotty Barnhart, will headline the festival. The Orchestra has won 18 Grammy Awards and performed for royalty, in films, and at major jazz festivals worldwide, upholding the legacy of its founder, pianist and bandleader William James “Count” Basie. Their most recent accolade includes a 2024 Grammy win for Best Large Jazz Ensemble for “Basie Swings the Blues.” This esteemed 18-member orchestra features some of the greatest soloists, composers, arrangers, and vocalists in jazz history.
Event Schedule
Thursday, Feb. 13
7 p.m. “In the Mix” Combo Performance: Members of the Count Basie Orchestra will perform an intimate small group concert in the Fine Arts Center. General Admission tickets are $10.
9 p.m. “In the Mix” Hors d’oeuvres Rendezvous: Attendees can gather in the Lobby Lounge of the Best Western Plus for conversation and light snacks provided by the SWOSU Music Department.
Friday, Feb. 14
8 a.m.–7 p.m. Big Band Festival: Middle school, high school, and collegiate jazz bands from across the region will perform throughout the day at the Fine Arts Center, Berrong Recital Hall, and other venues on campus.
9:30 a.m. “Practice Tips for Improv” Clinic: Led by Dave Hanson, SWOSU Jazz alum, in the Hilltop Theater.
11 a.m. “The Count Basie Orchestra 1935–2025: A Complete History” Clinic: Led by members of the Count Basie Orchestra at the Hilltop Theater.
1 p.m. SWOSU Jazz Orchestra Concert: Directed by Dr. Richard Tirk, this performance in the Fine Arts Center will feature guest soloists from the Count Basie Orchestra. Tickets are $10 for students, $15 for seniors, and $25 for general admission.
3 p.m. Playing the Basie Way Clinic: Led by members of the Count Basie Orchestra at the Fine Arts Center.
5 p.m. Jazz with Pizzazz Buffet Dinner: Held at the Timothy D. Day Business Enterprise Center, this pre-concert dinner includes transportation to and from the Fine Arts Center. Tickets are $25 or $55 with the “Atomic Basie Pass.”
8 p.m. Legendary Count Basie Orchestra Concert: Directed by Scotty Barnhart, this main event will showcase the full orchestra in the Fine Arts Center. Tickets are $10 for students, $20 for seniors, and $35 for general admission. The “Atomic Basie Pass,” which includes both the concert and the buffet dinner, is available for $55.
Regional university, high school, and middle school jazz bands will be performing for comments and ratings during the Big Band Festival. Outstanding high school and middle school soloists will receive certificates, with two soloists earning free tuition scholarships to a 2025 SWOSU Music Camp of their choice.
Non-performing groups are welcome to observe performances, clinics, and concerts. Clinics are free and open to the public.
SWOSU Jazz alumni have a unique opportunity to participate in the festivities. All former jazz students are invited to join Dr. Terry Segress, former SWOSU Music Department Chair and founder of the SWOSU Jazz Festival, on stage as the opening act of the festival. This alumni band performance celebrates the program’s history and offers a chance for past students to reconnect. Alumni can learn more here: https://swosujazzfest.com/alumni-information/.
Tickets for all performances are available online at https://bit.ly/48SmU4n. The festival is made possible through support from the SWOSU Foundation, which helps provide and organize masterclasses for high school students and accommodations for guest artists and organizers. Donations to support SWOSU Jazz can be made at https://swosufoundation.com/give/give-to-swosu-jazz/.
For more information about the festival, contact Dr. Richard Tirk at Richard.tirk@swosu.edu or visit www.swosujazzfest.com.
About Southwestern Oklahoma State University
Since 1901, Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) has proudly stood on the hilltop in Weatherford, Oklahoma. Offering over 100 affordable undergraduate and graduate programs across three locations in Weatherford, Sayre, and Yukon, SWOSU provides a diverse range of academic opportunities with high-quality education to its students. The university boasts a vibrant community of over 5,000 scholars and over 200 dedicated faculty and staff. With strong academic programs and a commitment to excellence, SWOSU continues to be a top choice for students seeking a quality education.
