EIU Jazz

The EIU Jazz Ensemble recently released its latest CD, 61920. The selections in this album represent the broad range of big band jazz performed by the ensemble. The music is primarily from live performances recorded over the last few years. The collection features compositions and arrangements by current and former students Brian Shaw (’01), Lucas Fain (’17), and Preston Rice (’21) and includes “The ‘J’ Bird Rides Again,” a composition by former Director of Jazz Studies Allan Horney.

You can stream the album on Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music or purchase it on Amazon, CD Baby, or by contacting the music office at 217-581-3010.

Listen to Excerpts from 61920

EIU Jazz Faculty members Sam Fagaly, tenor saxophone and Paul Johnston, piano.

Jazz Studies at EIU

For students interested in pursuing a degree in jazz, Jazz Studies is available as a concentration within the Bachelor of Music degree.  This concentration offers students a comprehensive study of jazz music from academic and performance perspectives.  It is well-known for its high quality instruction and successful graduates.  We offer a strong foundation in performance and jazz improvisation, history, theory, and arranging.

The Purpose of the Jazz Studies Concentration

• To promote jazz as a significant and indigenous American art form.
• To provide an environment for learning and developing the skills necessary to perform, compose, and teach in the professional world.
• To provide support for the jazz studies programs in the public schools throughout the region.

If you would like to be contacted about jazz studies at EIU, please fill out this Prospective Student Information Form.

EIU Jazz Faculty Members

Dr. Sam Fagaly, Director of Jazz Studies and Professor of Saxophone – view bio

Paul Johnston, Professor of Jazz Studies and Jazz Piano – view bio

Samuel Winternheimer, Instructor of Bass and Jazz Combo – view bio

Scott A Hesse, guitar – view bio

Jamie V Ryan, Associate Professor of Percussion – view bio