Chris Behrens

Originally from Watertown, Wisconsin, Chris Behrens attended the University of Illinois (Champaign-Urbana) where he earned a degree in Jazz Studies (Piano) and teacher certification.  In 2010, Mr. Behrens received his Masters of Music Education from VanderCook College (Chicago) and his National Board Certification in 2014.  He has studied jazz piano with John Harmon, Tony Caramia, Michael Kocour, and Mark Davis.

Mr. Behrens has taught full-time since 1996 in the School District of Beloit (WI).  From 1996-2001 he taught at Aldrich Middle School, and currently teaches at Beloit Memorial High School where he directs the Wind Ensemble, Concert Band, Pep Band, Jazz Orchestra, Jazz Ensemble, and Jazz Combos.   Under his direction, the Jazz Orchestra has been an Essentially Ellington Finalist Band for 12 out of the past 16 years.  He has been an Adjudicator for WSMA for the past 25 years and has been the WSMA State Honors Jazz Band Coordinator/Rhythm Section Coach and WMEA Jazz Chair.  He also serves as clinician and adjudicator for  Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Regional Essentially Ellington festivals, held throughout the United States.