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SUN (MAY 3 | 3:30 PM)“JACK PETERSEN: A LIFE & LEGACY CELEBRATION”
University of North Florida – Fine Arts Building 45
Recital Hall, Room 1200
1 UNF Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32224
Lend your presence for a deeply meaningful and inspiring tribute honoring the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of jazz guitar visionary Jack Petersen. Hosted by his son, Scott Petersen with the selfless help from Lisa Kelly, this special gathering will bring together a distinguished community of colleagues, former students, and friends—from across the world, regions and the nation—for an afternoon of music, reflection, and celebration.
Born on October 25, 1933, Jack devoted more than 78 years to his craft, performing from the age of 13 through 92. His remarkable career included service in the 8th U.S. Army Band in Seoul, Korea (1956–1957), and a long-standing role at the renowned Kenton Jazz Camps (1975–1994). As a pioneering educator, he served as founding faculty for three of the most influential university guitar programs in the country: Berklee College of Music, the University of North Texas, and the University of North Florida. His teaching extended widely, shaping programs and students at institutions such as Bowling Green State University and the University of South Florida, as well as in vibrant music communities across the country.
Widely respected as an architect of modern guitar pedagogy, Jack transformed jazz education through his innovative “guitar lab” concept, his groundbreaking ensemble approaches, and his integration of chord-scale theory, advanced harmony, and improvisation techniques. His influence reached far beyond guitarists, impacting instrumentalists, vocalists, composers, arrangers, and educators worldwide.
In addition to performing and recording with numerous acclaimed jazz artists, Jack co-authored important pedagogical texts and co-founded the publishing company Outrageous Mother Music with Rich Matteson and Phil Wilson in 1977. In later years, he continued to perform, teach, and present clinics nationwide, including his work in Prescott, Arizona, before returning to Jacksonville to be near family.
Up until his passing on February 5, 2026, Jack remained an active and celebrated artist, appearing as a featured guest with the University of North Florida Jazz Ensemble I and in special tribute performances alongside esteemed colleagues and former students—demonstrating a truly full-circle legacy.
This celebration will feature live performances and heartfelt reflections from the many artists and educators whose lives were shaped by Jack’s mentorship and friendship. Together, they will share stories and music that illuminate the profound and lasting impact of his life’s work.
We invite you to be part of this unforgettable tribute—an afternoon of exceptional music, shared memories, and gratitude for a life that helped shape the course of jazz education and performance.
Seating is limited. Doors open at 3:15 PM.
Please mark your calendar and share this event with others who would like to honor and celebrate Jack Petersen’s remarkable legacy.
Scott Petersen
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Event Venue
UNF Fine Arts Bldg. 45, Recital Hall Rm 1200, 1 UNF Drive, Jax, FL., 1 UNF Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32224-7699, United States
Tickets
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