Chris Behrens

Originally from Watertown, Wisconsin, Chris Behrens attended the University of Illinois (Champaign-Urbana) where he earned a Bachelors degree in Jazz Studies (Piano).  In 2010, Mr. Behrens received his Masters of Music Education from VanderCook College (Chicago) and in 2014, Mr. Behrens earned his National Board Certification.  He has studied jazz piano with John Harmon, Tony Caramia, and Michael Kocour. Mr. Behrens currently teaches at Beloit Memorial High School where he directs the Wind Ensemble, Concert Band, Pep Band, Jazz Orchestra, Jazz Ensemble, and jazz combo. He has been an Adjudicator for WSMA for the past 16 years and has been the WSMA State Honors Jazz Band Rhythm Section coach three times. The jazz program at BMHS has been recognized nationally as one of the best in the country.  The jazz bands and combos travel regularly to many festivals throughout the Midwest and have twice been to New Orleans. In 2009, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, and 2016, the BMHS Jazz Orchestra was selected as finalists for the Essentially Ellington jazz band competition and festival held in New York.