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Founded in 1998 by Boise State University to honor jazz pianist Gene Harris and support jazz education through scholarships, guest artists, and festival activities, the Gene Harris Jazz Festival has evolved into an education-first program. While the traditional festival format has shifted, Treefort at Boise State now hosts Battle of the Big Bands, Collage!, student showcases, jam sessions, and masterclasses, keeping Gene Harris’s legacy alive in a vibrant, learning-focused environment. The 2025 edition featured the Gene Harris Jazz Showcase during Treefort, with the festival contest canceled in favor of ongoing education programs and student showcases. Boise State confirms 2026 Treefort-related programming from March 25–29, 2026, including BOTB, Collage!, and on-campus performances. Whether you’re a longtime admirer or new to jazz education, this page highlights the festival’s heritage, ongoing outreach, and how to engage with Gene Harris’s enduring music and mission.