Deep Dish Music Festival

Music

The Deep Dish Music Festival is a daylong invitational event that brings together high school and community college ensembles to celebrate and nurture their unique musical talents. Columbia’s 9th annual festival will take place on March 13, 2026, and will feature acclaimed trumpet virtuoso, vocalist, pianist and composer Philip Lassiter as the guest artist.

The festival includes:

  • Performances of high school and community college ensembles adjudicated by Columbia faculty
  • Workshops led by Chicago music professionals on topics such as music technology, music business, and music theory specific to contemporary, jazz, and popular music
  • Master Classes with Philip Lassiter
  • A concert featuring Columbia's Jazz Ensemble directed by Scott Hall, the Fusion Ensemble directed by Bill Boris, and the R&B Ensemble: Showcase directed by Cassandra O’Neal performing with Philip Lassiter
  • And of course, plenty of pizza courtesy of Lou Malnati's!

will adjudicate, perform, and lead a workshop for festival attendees. Lassiter's exceptional talent as a composer, arranger, and virtuoso trumpet player has earned him high-profile gigs, including serving as horn arranger and section leader for Prince and the New Power Generation. His impressive credits also include work with artists such as Kirk Franklin, Ariana Grande, Timbaland, Roberta Flack, and many others.

  • Application and Fees

    Prices include participation in the day’s events, including adjudication of submissions, workshops, master class, all performances, and lunch.

    • 1 – 9 ensemble members: $200
    • 10 – 15 ensemble members: $300
    • 16 – 25 Ensemble Members: $400

    Some scholarships are available! Please indicate whether you'd like to be considered for a scholarship on your application.

  • About the School of Audio and Music at Columbia

    Students at the School of Audio and Music at ÒùÆÞÉç have the opportunity to expand and refine their talents—whether in sound for film and games, songwriting and performance, or operating a mixing console—while earning a degree in a dynamic and creative environment.

    Learn more about audio and music at Columbia.

Friday, March 13, 2026
ÒùÆÞÉç Music Center 

 

  Questions? Contact deepdish@colum.edu