Barrington L. Coleman

Barrington L. Coleman is a Professor of Voice and Director of Vocal Jazz Studies, Jazz Vocal Ensemble, and Varsity Men's Glee Club at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He holds a BM from Illinois Wesleyan University, an MM from Northwestern University, and a DMA from the Juilliard School of Music. His expertise spans vocal performance, jazz studies, choral conducting, and music education.

Education:

• Bachelor of Music (BM), Illinois Wesleyan University
• Master of Music (MM), Northwestern University
• Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA), Juilliard School of Music

Research & Performance: Dr. Coleman is a tenor soloist and jazz pianist, collaborating with renowned orchestras and composers. He has performed with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Royal Opera House of Covent Garden, and artists like Christian McBride. His work includes premieres of compositions by Adolphus Hailstork and Richard Hundley.

Leadership & Pedagogy: As a conductor, he leads the Varsity Men’s Glee Club and Jazz Vocal Ensemble. He established the Marquee Artist Immersion Lecture Series at Krannert Center for the Performing Arts. His pedagogical contributions include aural skills training at Juilliard and guest artist roles at institutions like Northwestern University.

Professional Engagement: He serves as an adjudicator for music organizations and collaborates internationally with choral ensembles in England, Wales, and Austria. His activities also include clinical work with the American Choral Directors Association and International Association of Jazz Educators.