The Jazz Program in the U of A Department of Music has partnered with multiple organizations to co-host the Northern Stage of the Arkansas Jazz Festival, April 22-23, at the newly constructed event center in the Fayetteville Public Library at 401 W. Mountain St. The festival is open to the public, and admission is free.

"We are thrilled to work with so many great partners to contribute to jazz education in our state," said Rick Salonen, director of the U of A Jazz Orchestra and producer of the Northern Stage festival.

This year's Northern Stage of the Arkansas Jazz Festival includes many of the area's high school and junior high jazz ensembles, the U of A Jazz Orchestra, the Northwest Arkansas Jazz Society Youth All-Stars and the U of A Latin Ensemble. The "Forte Quintet," Northwest Arkansas' premier jazz ensemble, is this year's featured guest act. Food vendors will be on site, and participants are encouraged to stay and listen to several groups.

Performances begin at 4 p.m. on Friday, April 22, continuing throughout the day, and 10 a.m., Saturday, April 23, continuing throughout the day. Co-sponsors and partners include the Northwest Arkansas Jazz Society, Georges Majestic Lounge and The Arkansas School Band and Orchestra Association.

The ASBOA Arkansas Jazz Educator's Festival is the largest running jazz festival in the state, taking place each April. This festival features ensembles from an array of Arkansas high schools, junior high schools, colleges, universities and regional groups at four regional venues.