Congratulations John!

Congratulations are in order for Xavier University’s Director of Jazz Studies John DeFoor. Last Month, John was asked to direct the National Jazz Band for the Inauguration Ceremonies for President-Elect Barack Obama!

The National Jazz Band is an All-Star Band of college musicians from schools in the Washington, D.C. area. John is no stranger to this honor, as he has directed the bands for former President Clinton’s first and second terms.

Last year, John celebrated his 25th anniversary as Director of Jazz Studies at Xavier. He is a significant representation of the depth in Jazz knowledge, background, and aptitude that lives here in Cincinnati.

The Jazz Half was able to catch up with John last summer as the XU Jazz Ensemble started working on their studio project for their upcoming CD, "Make Me Smile".

Click the play button above to watch the interview. Again, congratulations John!

- jh