Celebrating the next generation of jazz talent
The Jacob Neale Jazz Awards Concert is coming to Newcastle Conservatorium of Music this August, celebrating the next generation of talented jazz musicians.
On Saturday, 1 August, five young finalists will perform a program of saxophone pieces with piano trio as part of The Jacob Neale Jazz Awards finals and concert.
Presented by Newcastle Conservatorium of Music and major sponsor Newcastle Improvised Music Association, the awards have been created by the Newcastle music community in honour of Jacob Neale’s outstanding contribution to jazz and improvised music.
The finals concert will see five young jazz musicians take to the stage, with performers in the running to win $5000 for first prize, $2000 for second prize, and a $500 Regional Prize.
Jacob Neale was a much-loved Newcastle musician, educator, performer, composer, arranger, and musical director whose work left a lasting mark on the local and national music community.
He performed regularly as part of Newcastle’s jazz scene, was active with NIMA, and went on to work as Music Director for the Sydney-based Talent Development Program, as well as leading the NSW Premier’s Gala Concert for several years.
Jacob sadly passed away from brain cancer in December 2023, with these awards created to honour his legacy and continue supporting emerging jazz artists.
The Jacob Neale Jazz Awards Concert
When: Saturday, 1 August 2026
Where: Newcastle Conservatorium of Music, Newcastle
Time: 7:00pm – 10:00pm
Cost: From $33.08
To book, visit The Jacob Neale Jazz Awards Concert
