Jazz Trombonist Gordon to Perform with University Jazz Ensemble at N.C. A&T Lyceum Series

EAST GREENSBORO, N.C. (April 20, 2026) — North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University’s Lyceum Series, in collaboration with the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences (CAHSS) University Jazz Ensemble, will host an evening of jazz with internationally acclaimed trombonist, composer and bandleader Wycliffe Gordon.

The performance, which is open to the public, will take place Thursday, April 30, at 7 p.m. in Harrison Auditorium, 1009 Bluford St. Admission is free for all North Carolina A&T students, faculty and staff with a valid Aggie One ID. Tickets for the general public are $10 apiece and available from the university ticket office in Brown Hall.

The Lyceum Series is a culturally diverse showcase of performing arts and expressions, bringing world-class talent to campus through art, music and culture. Past headliners include Sheila E. and The E. Family, Russian National Ballet Theatre, Mary Mary, the Chinese Golden Acrobats, Tami Lee Hughes and Kirk Whalum. This year, Gordon’s performance will feature a collaboration with the University Jazz Ensemble under the direction of Jonovan Cooper, DMA. 

Gordon is known for his rich tone, technical skill and energetic stage presence. His career spans decades of touring, recordings and jazz education. This year, he is scheduled to perform at the Germantown Performing Arts Center and the Appalachian Theatre of the High Country. As a Yamaha Artist, he also supports the company’s mission to advance music education across the United States. Earlier this year, he appeared in the 2026 Jazz at the Strand Series with Hello Pops!, a tribute to Louis Armstrong featuring classic repertoire and original compositions inspired by Armstrong’s life and music.

In addition to the concert, Gordon will lead a free public masterclass Thursday, April 30, at 2 p.m. in Harrison Auditorium. The session is open to students, faculty, staff and the community, and will offer insight for music lovers, composers, educators and anyone interested in jazz, along with practical guidance drawn from Gordon’s professional experience.

During his campus visit, Gordon will also lead an experiential workshop for A&T music program students focused on career readiness and professional development in the music industry. Students will gain strategies for building sustainable careers in jazz and navigating the professional performance landscape.

The University Jazz Ensemble is one of A&T’s premier performing groups, featuring a full big band, jazz combos and vocal jazz components. The ensemble draws students from across the university and has recently collaborated with the Theatre Arts program, performed at the Battle Royal against North Carolina Central University, shared the stage with Kirk Whalum at last year’s Lyceum Series, and participated in the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra and Virginia Arts Festival HBCU Jazz Residency. These performances highlight the ensemble’s versatility, talent and ongoing contribution to the tradition of jazz.

For more information, email Cooper at jtcooper1@ncat.edu.    

Harrison Auditorium Clear Bag Policy:

Be sure to bring an approved clear bag. Bag(s) must be 12” x 6” x 12” or smaller, and made of clear plastic, vinyl or PVC. Non-approved bags are not permitted.