Chicago Jazz Ensemble

in Residence at Columbia College Chicago since 1965

A Message from Artistic Director, Jon Faddis

Thank you for welcoming me as the new Artistic Director of the Chicago Jazz Ensemble and for making me feel at home in Chicago.  I am honored and delighted, and I look forward to meeting more of this city's wonderful people and forging bridges among communities and musical styles. 

I personally also wish to thank Bill Dobbins, Joe Lovano, and Lenny Niehaus for all of their hard work and leadership with the CJE during the 2003-2004 season.  It is my hope that we'll be able to have each of them return to guest with the CJE in future seasons; they are remarkable musicians and people, and I am glad they are colleagues and friends.

We kick off the Sixth American Heritage Series, Sunday, February 13 with a Blues inspired Jazz concert  featuring Legendary bluesman Lonnie Brooks.  The show  also highlights new arrangements by the much-loved Frank Foster.

Your support and suggestions are valued, especially as we honor nearly four decades of excellent Jazz at Columbia College Chicago and the legacy of William Russo, and as we make special plans to celebrate the CJE's 40th anniversary season in 2005-2006.

Again, my heartfelt welcome and thanks! 
Jon Faddis, Artistic Director of the Chicago Jazz Ensemble