Jason Moran has played at his share of Detroit Jazz Festivals and has “always been very aware” of who the artists-in-residence were in those years.

He was never expecting to be one of them, however.

“It always seemed like an exciting prospect, to share a number of sets with the Detroit listening public,” says Moran, 50, who will serve as the artist-in-residence for the 46th annual festival, which runs Aug. 29 to Sept. 1 in Hart Plaza and Campus Martius Park. “So to be doing it this year, yeah, it’s just, like a shock to me.”

And the well-credentialed pianist and educator — who released an album titled “Artist in Residence” in 2006 — doesn’t mind saying he’s “sort of terrified” as he prepares for the role, which will include three unique performances over the four days.

“For me, the Det

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