معرفی
Clay Jenkins is a Professor of Jazz Studies & Contemporary Media and ECMS Collegiate Instructor in Trumpet at the Eastman School of Music, University of Rochester. He has been on academic leave since Spring 2026. A renowned jazz artist, Jenkins has performed with major orchestras including the Stan Kenton Orchestra, Buddy Rich Big Band, and Count Basie Orchestra. His career spans over 100 recordings as a performer and arranger, with seven solo albums and collaborations with artists like Gene Bertoncini and Joe LaBarbera.
Education: B.A. in Music Theory from University of North Texas, M.A. in Jazz Studies from University of Southern California.
Research Interests: Jazz performance, trumpet techniques, big band arrangements, jazz education, and contemporary media applications in music. His work emphasizes bridging traditional jazz traditions with modern innovations, reflected in his recordings and pedagogical contributions.
Notable Contributions: Established the 'Snooky Young Endowed Scholarship' at Eastman to support under-represented minority students. Currently writing a biography of trumpeter Eugene 'Snooky' Young. Active in Eastman's community programs and collaborative projects like Trio East with colleagues Jeff Campbell and Rich Thompson.
Performance Highlights: Regular performances with Clayton/Hamilton Jazz Orchestra, recordings with artists spanning Keiko Matsui to Dr. John, and leadership in educational outreach through Eastman's community initiatives.
