Columbus Jazz Orchestra at Bicentennial Park

ANNOUNCING SPECIAL GUEST CONDUCTOR: ZACH COMPSTON

Swing into the 2026/2027 season with a free Columbus Jazz Orchestra concert. As a part of the Scioto Mile free concert series, enjoy everything the beautiful Bicentennial Park stage has to offer with the hottest jazz in town.

WEATHER POLICY: Events organized by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department are typically held rain or shine. If severe weather creates safety concerns, events may be postponed or canceled. Updates are posted on the Scioto Mile Facebook page.

GUEST VOCALIST ALEX HUFF

Driven by a deep sense of cultural pride and purpose, Alex’s mission is to “introduce and reintroduce audiences of color to our music,” preserving and celebrating the rich legacy of African American musical traditions while inspiring a new generation of listeners.

A native of Cleveland, Ohio, Alex is a proud graduate of the Cleveland School of the Arts, where he studied vocal music. Though classically trained, it was during his middle school years that he discovered a deep passion for jazz.

After high school, Alex continued his education at Central State University, where he became an active member of the CSU Chorus. With the ensemble, he traveled across the country performing a diverse repertoire that included classical works, Negro spirituals, gospel, and more.

Upon earning his degree, Alex joined the acclaimed Jeremy Winston Chorale, with whom he has performed extensively both nationally and internationally.
Locally, Alex has graced stages throughout the region, captivating audiences at venues such as Columbus Museum of Art, Ginger Rabbit, The Schottenstein Center, and Dick’s Den, among others.

GUEST VOCALIST RACHEL AZBELL

Rachel Azbell is a jazz vocalist praised for her soulful alto voice, singing in the tradition of jazz greats like Ella Fitzgerald and Nancy Wilson. She has captivated audiences with her performances alongside the Columbus Jazz Orchestra, the Bobby Floyd Trio, and her own Rachel Azbell Quintet. Based in Columbus, OH, Rachel brings a deep passion for jazz to her performances, infusing classic standards with her unique style and emotional depth.

In addition to her performing career, Rachel has a significant background in arts administration. She served as the Education Program Manager at the Jazz Arts Group in Columbus, Ohio, where she managed several key initiatives, including the Columbus Youth Jazz (CYJ) Program, the CYJ Girls Project, and the CYJ Vocal Lab. Rachel also created the innovative ‘Vocal Lab’ and ‘Adult Vocal Workshop’ programs, fostering a renewed sense of community and educational opportunities for vocalists of all ages.

Rachel’s teaching experience is extensive and diverse. She has taught at Otterbein University and the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. At the University of North Texas, Rachel served as a teaching fellow, instructing private lessons and jazz studies courses while performing with the esteemed UNT Jazz Singers. Her expertise in vocal pedagogy and commitment to high-quality education make her a sought-after mentor for aspiring vocalists.

Rachel holds a Master’s in Music in Jazz Studies from the University of North Texas, where she studied under Jennifer Barnes and Rosana Eckert. She also earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Denison University. Her academic journey has provided her with a strong foundation in both jazz and commercial styles, equipping her with the skills and knowledge to excel as a performer, educator, and arts administrator.