The Chicago Jazz Ensemble led by Artistic Director, Jon Faddis is recognized internationally as one of American's leading jazz ensembles. Founded in 1965 by distinguished composer and conductor William Russo, the CJE has remained dedicated throughout its history to preserving the innovative tradition of American big band jazz music, performing and reinterpreting the classics of big-band repertoire, while promoting the continuing evolution of the art form by regularly performing and commissioning contemporary works. As a professional jazz ensemble in residence at Columbia College Chicago, the CJE is equally committed to education, building new audiences and fostering the next generation of American talent by training and mentoring young musicians.

Featuring CJE Music Director Dana Hall; Chicago Reader Music Critic Peter Margasak; Saxophonist, Composer, Ethnomusicologist Leonard Brown as DJ's and Panelists

COME LISTEN TO RECORDS AND HEAR DISCUSSION ABOUT THE YEAR 1959 IN JAZZ

Co-produced by The CJE and the Center for Black Music Research FREE for students; $5 for general public

The Chicago Jazz Ensemble is proudly in residence at Columbia College Chicago as it has been since 1965. As part of our initiative to maintain a strong relationship between The CJE and the Columbia College Chicago Music Department, The CJE has featured students in some of its major performances at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance. This provides a great hands-on learning opportunity for some of Columbia's brightest music students. It also increases the visibility and enhances the reputation of Columbia College Chicago as a premier arts and media college.