EIU Jazz Directors
Sam Fagaly
Sam Fagaly is the Director of Jazz Studies at Eastern Illinois University. He conducts the EIU Jazz Ensemble and is Associate Professor of Saxophone. In addition he teaches jazz theory and jazz history. Under his direction, the EIU Jazz Ensemble has performed at IAJE, IMEA, and with numerous guest artists such as Joe Williams, Snooky Young and many others. He has been active as a clinician and guest soloist throughout the nation and has been featured at the Region V North American Saxophone Alliance Conference performing in both classical and jazz styles. Also, he has performed with many distinguished Jazz artists including JJ. Johnson, Bobby Shew, and Sarah Vaughan. Before coming to EIU, he was a member of the Air Force Band of the West in which he played lead tenor in the jazz band and principal alto in the wind ensemble. Dr. Fagaly earned his Doctor of Arts degree from the University of Northern Colorado where he studied with Roger Greenberg and Gene Aitken. He received his bachelor of Music Education from the University of Florida and his M.M. degree from Louisiana State University.
Paul Johnston
Paul Johnston joined Eastern's faculty in the fall of 2004. He directs the Jazz Lab Band, coordinates the combo program, and teaches courses in jazz piano, improvisation, and history. Paul holds degrees from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Indiana University. He is at home in a wide variety of musical styles and has performed with artists across the country. Paul recently completed a 60-city tour with vocalist Monica Mancini and enjoys writing music for soloists and chamber groups. He has served on the summer faculty at the Interlochen Center for the Arts since 2002.
