The origin of the SFCC Jazz Festival dates back to 1981 when it was an event co-produced with the Spokane Jazz Society. We owe a great deal of thanks to the SJS and then executive director, Craig Volosing, for the inspiration and energy to offer a unique, non-competitive educational experience for high school jazz musicians. For several years, the Spokane Jazz Orchestra played an integral part, with performances and sectional work with students.

Our guest artists that first year were Mike Vax and his Southern Comfort Dixieland All Stars. As we grew and won our wings of independence, we brought in many of the world’s top jazz artists: Rich Matteson, Jack Peterson, Clark Terry (two years), Frank Foster, Frank Wess, Phil Woods Quartet, Eddie Daniels, Carl Fontana, Ed Shaughnessy, Ernie Watts, Steve Smith, Michael Brecker, Randy Brecker, Eliane Elias, Pete Christlieb, Peter Erskine, Jon Faddis, Lew Tabackin, Dave Weckl, Bob Berg, Louis Bellson, George Robert, Stephon Harris, Boko Maru, David Sanchez, Paquito D’Rivera, the Sons of Brasil, Terence Blanchard, Eddie Palmieri, Poncho Sanchez, John Clayton, Jeff Hamilton, Conrad Herwig, Wayne Bergeron, The Brubeck Brothers, Ellen Rowe, Dave Glenn and our many regional friends.

As these world-class artists have performed for us and shared their expertise in clinics and workshops, we are happy to be achieving our original goals. Thanks to all of you who have been part of our history! We invite you to be part of our future!