The NIU Jazz Orchestra was one of only nine collegiate jazz groups to participate in the 2023 Jack Rudin Jazz Championships held at New York City’s Lincoln Center, January 14 and 15.
The Jazz Orchestra earned five awards at the competition.
- Outstanding Drums – Pete Zimmer
- Honorable Mention Trombone – Kirby Fellis
- Honorable Mention Soprano Saxophone – Evon J. Sams
- Outstanding Trombone Section
- Honorable Mention Rhythm Section
NIU President Lisa J. Freeman and Director of the School of Music Andrew Glendening were among those to make the trip to support the Jazz Orchestra and enjoy a weekend of incredible music.
The NIU Jazz Orchestra is directed by Reggie Thomas, Professor of Music and Head of Jazz Studies in the NIU School of Music.
He shared some thoughts and some photos at the conclusion of the trip.
You can see the NIU Jazz Orchestra play in DeKalb this spring.
They will be part of Jazz at the Egyptian, Saturday February 4, 7 p.m., Egyptian Theatre, downtown DeKalb
Tickets are available through the Egyptian Theatre.
And they have two performances this spring at Boutell Memorial Concert Hall in the NIU Music Building.
Wednesday, March 8 at 7 p.m. they will be performing with the NIU Jazz Ensemble.
Tickets are $5 for adults, $3 for students and NIU students are free of charge.
And they will perform Thursday, April 20 at 7 p.m.
Tickets are $5 for adults, $3 for students and NIU students are free of charge.
