PURDUE JAZZ FESTIVAL
Guest artists and clinicians
Artist-In-Residence
Jalen Baker
Born in Washington DC and raised in Houston, Tx, Jalen Baker is a vibraphonist, percussionist, educator, and composer whose early training involved both classical and jazz genres. Jalen was chosen as a Ravinia Jazz Fellow in 2018 where he studied with Rufus Reid, Billy Childs, and Tim Haggins. He has been an active performer with The Ulysses Owens Jr, Jeremy Pelt, Michael Mwenso and The Shakes, Leon Anderson, Amina Scott quartets as well as leading his own band in venues in and around Georgia, Florida, Texas, and Chicago. As a band leader Jalen has also been awarded the prestigious South Arts Jazz Roads Touring Grant.
Guest Artist and Clinician
Camille Thurman
Tenor Saxophonist and Vocalist Camille Thurman made history, becoming the first woman in 30 years to tour, record, and perform full-time internationally with the world-renowned Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra as a saxophonist/woodwind doubler (2018-2020 season). A respected bandleader, she has headlined numerous notable concert venues and jazz festivals worldwide, including the Kennedy Center, The Library of Congress, and the Rose Theater. Her international recognition is a testament to the universal appeal of her music and the profound impact she has made on the global jazz community.
