Giant Steps Jazz Concert: A Night of Music, Talent, and Community Support

Giant Steps is an annual jazz concert featuring exceptional student musicians from the Rincon University High School (RUHS) Jazz Bands. Launched in 2018 to support the bands’ trip to the prestigious Midwest Clinic, which highlights the talent of RUHS Jazz I students selected through a rigorous audition process to perform for a global audience of music educators and professionals.

Named after John Coltrane’s iconic album Giant Steps, the concert honors the album’s innovation and lasting influence on jazz while reflecting the creativity, growth, and musical ambition of today’s student musicians. Thanks to strong community support, Giant Steps has become a highly anticipated tradition, offering audiences a high-energy showcase of the RUHS jazz program.

Giant Steps 2026 Concert Information

Join us for an incredible evening of live jazz with the RUHS Jazz Bands, along with a Silent Auction featuring locally donated items. Enjoy an exciting night of music while supporting a program known for its exceptional quality.

Date: February 6, 2026

Time: 6:00 PM

Location: Rincon University High School Auditorium

                 421 N Arcadia Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85711

Exceptional Jazz. Incredible Students. One Amazing Night.

Audiences consistently remark that the RUHS Jazz Ensembles far exceed expectations for a high school group, delivering performances so polished and engaging that listeners often forget they’re hearing student musicians. Alumni also share how meaningful their time in Jazz Band was, highlighting the strong musical growth and the enjoyment of performing high-quality repertoire.

Admission Suggested Donation- $5.00

Special Guest

January 30th, 2026, Special Guest 

Ben Canfield

Ben Canfield is a 24 year old professional jazz saxophone player. Having played jazz for the past decade, he has spent the last 6 years in Boston, going through Berklee College of Music for an undergraduate degree in Music Performance, and a master’s degree in jazz and contemporary music from Longy School of Music. He is currently in the process of earning his doctorate from the University of Arizona, where he has the opportunity to perform every week at The Century Room and teach at the University of Arizona. He has had the chance to study under George Garzone, Brice Winston, Noah Preminger, Danilo Parez, Eric HoRauer, and Angelo

Versace.

A Night to Remember: Supporting the Future of Jazz Education

The Giant Steps Jazz Concert is a memorable night of live music that offers an opportunity to support an outstanding music program recognized at the state level for its excellence. The event features a Silent Auction, generously supported by donations from local businesses and individuals, and plays a crucial role in raising funds to sustain this program.

By attending and participating in the auction, you're directly contributing to the program's continued success. The auction boasts a variety of items, from exclusive local experiences to unique, one-of-a-kind treasures. Every bid you place helps ensure the ongoing success of RUHS Jazz, allowing future generations to experience the joy and educational value of music.

Visit the auction item page to see a list of auction items. If you would like to donate an item, please email us at VPfundraising@RangerBand.org.

Those who wish to make direct donations to our Ranger Band Scholarship Fund, General Fund, or Giant Steps Campaign can do so in our online store or by mailing a check to RUMBA. 

RUMBA

PO Box 57151

Tucson, AZ 85732