DC Jazz Prix is the rare Jazz competition focused on cohesion: Video, Photo

This year marks the 7th annual DCJazzPrix, an international band competition that draws some of the greatest talent from around the globe.

What makes this competition unique is that it focuses on band cohesion and natural interplay rather than individual talent. It thrusts contestants in front of major jazz industry professionals, granting the winner a grand prize, career development and support, a yearlong association with the DC Jazz Festival, and a performance slot on the 18th annual festival.

“DCJazzPrix is unique in that it aims to identify and showcase emerging and exceptional jazz band talent from an international perspective,” says Sunny Sumter, Executive Director of DCJF. She adds that the competition “is designed to help launch and further promote the careers of emerging jazz ensembles who are committed to sustained and creative band development and performance opportunities.”

The competition will take place during the last day of the 17th annual DC Jazz Festival: 2 p.m. this Sunday, Sept. 5 at Union Stage.