The Chicago Jazz Ensemble with Music Director, Dana Hall 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.

Celebrated by critics and audiences alike as one of the nation's foremost jazz bands, the CJE's 18-member professional ensemble comprises an elite group of Chicago jazz musicians, ranging from established stars with national reputations and acclaimed Columbia College Chicago faculty, to the city's brightest young talents. Collectively, the members have performed and collaborated with nearly every major talent in the jazz world of the last 30 years.

The Chicago Jazz Ensemble has established a reputation for excellence in the Chicagoland area. Performances have featured a diverse range of guest artists in recent years including Lennie Niehaus, Lonnie Brooks, Bill Dobbins, Joe Lovano, Johnny Frigo, Franz Jackson, Corky Siegel, Orbert Davis, Slide Hampton, Johnny Griffin, Ira Sullivan, Von Freeman, Eric Alexander, Gerald Wilson, Claudia Acuna, Cedar Walton, Dr. Billy Taylor and Dave Valentin-providing local audiences with the opportunity to experience live performances by the leading jazz artists of our time.