Celebrate the end of the academic year with an afternoon of live jazz beneath the trees of the University of Virginia's Historic Lawn. The University of Virginia Department of Music presents Jazz on the Lawn on Wednesday, May 5, 2027, from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. on Homer Flat, in front of Old Cabell Hall.
A favorite UVA tradition held on Reading Day, Jazz on the Lawn brings together students, faculty, staff, alumni, and members of the Charlottesville community for an afternoon of outstanding live music in one of the University's most beautiful settings. Bring a blanket, pack a picnic, or simply pause between exams to enjoy performances by
the University's outstanding Jazz Small Groups.
Directed by acclaimed UVA jazz faculty Sharel Cassity, Pete Spaar, Calvin Brown, and Mike Rosensky, the Jazz Small Groups range from quartets to octets and represent students at a variety of experience levels. Throughout the year, these ensembles perform across Grounds and throughout the Charlottesville community, exploring the rich traditions of jazz while developing the artistry, collaboration, and improvisational skills that define the genre.
The afternoon's repertoire spans the history of jazz, from timeless classics by artists such as Duke Ellington, Charlie Parker, John Coltrane, Wayne Shorter, Lee Morgan, and Antônio Carlos Jobim to original works by UVA faculty and student composers. Every performance reflects the creativity, spontaneity, and joy that make jazz a uniquely engaging live experience.
Jazz on the Lawn serves as both a celebration of the semester's accomplishments and a cherished moment of community before final exams begin. Whether you stay for an entire set or simply stop by while crossing Grounds, you're invited to relax, listen, and enjoy an afternoon of exceptional student musicianship in the heart of the University.
Performing ensembles and musicians will be announced closer to the event date.
Admission
This event is free and open to the public.
Location
Homer Flat is located on the Historic Lawn directly in front of Old Cabell Hall, opposite the Rotunda.
All events are subject to change.