2018 Jacksonville Jazz Festival Piano Competition

For more than 30 years, the Jacksonville Piano Competition has been a jazz fest tradition. Presented by Keyboard Connection Pianos & Organs, it continues to be one of the most exciting musical spectacles to be seen anywhere!

Five finalists representing the very best jazz pianists are chosen by a blind panel of judges to compete for a cash prize and a chance to perform on the Main 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 talent.

The Master of Ceremony

Noel Freidline returns to the Jacksonville Jazz Festival as the Master of Ceremonies for the Jacksonville Jazz Piano Competition.

The Finalists

Matt DeChamplain graduated with his masters from the University of Toledo in 2012. Matt’s performed at the Berks Jazz Festival, JVC Jazz Festival, The Kennedy Center, the Regatta Bar and Dizzy’s Club Coca Cola. He participated in Betty Carter’s Jazz Ahead led by Dr. Billy Taylor and played in Europe with bassist Nat Reeves. Matt has shared the stage with Jimmy Cobb, Steve Davis, Javon Jackson, Dave Brubeck, Paul Keller, Avery Sharpe and Jon Hendricks.

Deemed a “musical genius” by Global Good News, Keelan Dimick, is a multi-talented musician. After appearing in several national tours, Keelan was announced a finalist in both the American Pianists Association Competition and the Jacksonville Jazz Piano Competition this past year. Additionally, Keelan has shared the stage with jazz luminaries, including Kobie Watkins, David Liebman, Walter Smith III, Brian Lynch, and multi-platinum recording artist Michael Feinstein.

Nicholas Olynciw is a Michigan based pianist, vocalist and composer. Nicholas attended the University of North Texas and was a member of the One O’Clock Lab Band. Currently, Nicholas is pursuing a masters degree at the Western Michigan University. Nicholas has performed with artists Peter Bernstein, James Morrison, Dennis Mackrel, Tim Hagans, Rudy Royston, Kurt Elling, the New York Voices and MOSS.

Matthew Villinger is 28 and born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri. From there he received his Undergraduate and Masters in Jazz Performace from Southern Illinois University of Edwardsville. He has got to work with greats, such as Reggie Thomas, Peter Martin, Glenn Zaleski, Peter Schlamb and others. Villinger currently resides in Kansas City leading his own groups as well as playing in Electric Tinks and other sideman projects.

Spencer Zweifel began playing piano at a young age, and started to really pursue it after being inspired by his musical family. While Spencer works extensively as a jazz pianist, he also performs with funk and salsa bands, contemporary classical music ensembles, pit orchestras, and as a collaborative pianist. Spencer is currently pursuing a degree in jazz studies at the University of Northern Colorado.

The Rhythm

Dennis Marks - Bass An accomplished musician and composer, Dennis has toured the world many times over. He has also performed with other jazz luminaries including Dizzy Gillespie, Dave Liebman, Arturo Sandoval, Bob Mintzer, and many more.

Former U.S. Navy Commodores drummer, Clyde Conner is a renowned drummer and educator. Clyde has performed with Jeff Andrews, Louie Bellson, Randy Brecker, Dave Brubeck, Pete Christlieb, Arturo Sandoval, Diane Schurr, and so many more!

The Judges

Internationally acclaimed jazz pianist and vocalist Champian Fulton is recognized by peers and critics as distinctive and sophisticated. She has performed with musical royalty such as Lou Donaldson, Frank Wess, Eric Alexander, Buster Williams, and Louis Hayes.

While piano is his first love, Tom LeGrand learned to play many instruments at an early age. He has played shows with such jazz greats as Dave Brubeck, Maynard Ferguson, Andy Williams and Benny Goodman.

Pianist Aaron Parks is a forward-thinking jazz musician who came to the public’s attention during his time with trumpeter Terence Blanchard. Parks has performed with a variety of artists including Christian Scott, Kendrick Scott, Gretchen Parlato, and others.