Ron Modell

Ron Modell was tasked with creating a jazz program from scratch, Modell auditioned 60 hopeful musicians for 20 available chairs in the new ensemble.  Just six weeks later, the NIU Jazz Ensemble played its first concert.

Modell was an accomplished trumpeter who had played with all the greats – Louis Armstrong, Maynard Ferguson, Duke Ellington, Dizzy Gillespie, Louis Bellson and many more. His talent, outgoing personality and strong connections in the music world introduced his students to dozens of jazz stars and travel opportunities beyond their wildest imaginations. Enjoy!