Feb 3, 2026 12:10 AM
In Memoriam: Ken Peplowski, 1959–2026
Ken Peplowski, a clarinetist and tenor saxophonist who straddled the worlds of traditional and modern jazz, died Feb. 2…
The Chicago Jazz Ensemble (CJE), under the artistic direction of Jon Faddis, has named Dana Hall as its music director and Darius Hampton as education director. The news was announced by CJE Executive Director J. Richard Dunscomb. In addition to their new roles, Hall will maintain his seat as drummer for the CJE and Hampton will continue as music librarian.
“We are pleased to celebrate the expanded roles of these two exceptional jazz aficionados,” said Dunscomb. “Dana is as talented on the stage as he is behind-the-scenes and Darius’ experience as our historian will lend a great deal to our education programs.”
As Music Director, Hall will supervise musicians and concert production and work with Faddis as welll as the music department chair and education director on the band’s vision. Hampton will develop a strategic plan for educational vision and materials and maintain regular contact with Chicago Public Schools, festivals and concerts with educational entities and projects.
More info: chicagojazzensemble.com
Peplowski first came to prominence in legacy swing bands, including the final iteration of the Benny Goodman Orchestra, before beginning a solo career in the late 1980s.
Feb 3, 2026 12:10 AM
Ken Peplowski, a clarinetist and tenor saxophonist who straddled the worlds of traditional and modern jazz, died Feb. 2…
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