Jul 17, 2025 12:44 PM
DownBeat’s 73rd Annual Critics Poll: One for the Record Books
You see before you what we believe is the largest and most comprehensive Critics Poll in the history of jazz. DownBeat…
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
James Brandon Lewis earned honors for Artist of the Year and Tenor Saxophonist of the Year. Three of his recordings placed in the Albums of the Year category.
Jul 17, 2025 12:44 PM
You see before you what we believe is the largest and most comprehensive Critics Poll in the history of jazz. DownBeat…
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Chuck Mangione on the cover of the May 8, 1975, edition of DownBeat.
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The DownBeat Critics Poll provides a wonderful snapshot of the jazz scene today, with much to explore and many great…
