The UNCSA Improvised Music and Jazz Festival, presented by Mercedes-Benz of Winston-Salem, returns to downtown Winston-Salem for a second year, culminating each evening with a 7:30 p.m. headlining concert featuring internationally recognized guest artists.

This year’s performers include saxophonist Eddie Barbash, guitarist Mike Baggetta and Grammy-nominated violinist and fiddle innovator Casey Driessen, representing a dynamic cross section of contemporary improvised music that blends jazz, Americana, experimental and global influences.

Free daytime events begin at 1 p.m. each day, featuring regional school bands, UNCSA student musicians, master classes and jam sessions. Tickets are required only for the 7:30 p.m. headlining concerts each evening.

The festival is organized by Steve Alford, chair of the Jazz and Contemporary Music Department in the School of Music.