John, Paul, George and Ringo. No last names needed. The Beatles were that iconic, innovative and influential. In less than ten years they redefined pop and rock and pointed the way as to how music would be created for the next 40 years. Not the least of their contributions may be a lexicon of songs that can stand up to reinterpretation and recasting into most any genre. Their masterful melodies and strong harmonic approach makes their music a perfect jumping off point for jazz musicians. The Noel Freidline Quartet with vocalist Maria Howell presents an evening of masterful re-imagining of some of the Fab Four’s most well known songs.

John, Paul, George and Ringo. No last names needed. The Beatles were that iconic, innovative and influential. In less than ten years they redefined pop and rock and pointed the way as to how music would be created for the next 40 years. Not the least of their contributions may be a lexicon of songs that can stand up to reinterpretation and recasting into most any genre. Their masterful melodies and strong harmonic approach makes their music a perfect jumping off point for jazz musicians. The Noel Freidline Quartet with vocalist Maria Howell presents an evening of masterful re-imagining of some of the Fab Four’s most well known songs.

For over thirty years, the Jacksonville Piano Competition presented by Keyboard Connection – The Piano Place has been a jazz fest tradition. The event continues to be one of the most exciting musical spectacles to be seen anywhere!

Five finalists representing the very best jazz pianists in the world are chosen by a blind panel of judges to compete for a cash prize and a chance to perform on the Swingin’ Stage at this year’s festival. This fierce competition has become an integral part of the festival and a favorite among many eager to witness some of the most incredible rising talents in the jazz world.

Past judges have included jazz legends such as Marcus Roberts, Brian Culbertson, Christian Sands, Jason Miles, Joey Calderazzo, Lynne Arriale, Dr. John, Per Danielsson, John Thomas, and other well-known jazz musicians.

The Jacksonville Jazz Festival Piano Competition presented by Keyboard Connection – The Piano Place has been a Jacksonville tradition for more than 30 years. The competition, hosted by the City of Jacksonville Division of Sports and Entertainment, will take place on Thursday, May 25, 2023 at The Florida Theatre, where five finalists, chosen through a “blind” judging process in March, will compete for the honor of this award. The winner will receive a monetary prize and will perform at the Jacksonville Jazz Festival.

Noel Freidline to emcee the event and perform with vocalist Maria Howell while judges deliberate.

The event is FREE and open to the public.