Rate My Professor Kevin Kjos

Since 1998, Dr. Kjos has demonstrated exceptional leadership in music education and performance at Kutztown University as Professor of Trumpet, Director of Jazz Studies, and director of the Jazz Ensemble, Rock Ensemble, Latin Ensemble, jazz combos, and applied trumpet instruction. Under his direction, these ensembles have earned 10 Student Music Awards from DownBeat Magazine, including multiple consecutive wins for the Blues and Rock Ensemble, establishing Kutztown as a leader in student commercial music. Prior to Kutztown, he founded and directed the Cedar Avenue Big Band in Minneapolis, performing weekly at the Dakota Bar and Grill, and the Sound Exploration Ensemble dedicated to new music exploration. As a professional trumpet player, band leader, and composer spanning genres from R&B to classical, Dr. Kjos has secured grants for performances and recordings. He authored the instructional book Teaching Imagination, a Guide to Jazz and Rock Instruction. In 2015, he received the President's Award from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire for outstanding professional and personal achievements and service to the university. Dr. Kjos also serves on Kutztown University's President's Faculty Advisory Committee.