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Dustin Laurenzi

About Me

Since arriving in Chicago in early 2012, saxophonist Dustin Laurenzi has already gained recognition as a unique new voice in the city’s creative music community. Born and raised in Kenosha, Wisconsin, his school band directors and private instructors nurtured his early musical voice, and in his later high school years he began performing in Kenosha with both his peers and veteran local musicians. Dustin continued his studies at Indiana University’s Jacobs School of Music, where he was awarded the David Jacobs Scholarship. During his time at Indiana University, Dustin had the great fortune to work closely with Dr. Tom Walsh and jazz education guru Dr. David Baker. Dustin graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Jazz Studies and was one of four yearly recipients of the Performer’s Certificate, the institution’s highest honor for instrumental performers. Currently, Dustin is an active performer both as a sideman and leader/co-leader. He is one of the co-founders of the saxophone-fronted, genre-defying ensemble, Snaarj, whose latest release “Levels” was described as “a substantial work full of deep textures, deft musicianship and expertly crafted compositions” (Kyle Long, NUVO). Most recently Dustin’s main focus has been performing with and composing for Laurenzi/Ernst/Green, a new ensemble whose aesthetic seamlessly blends jazz, chamber music, and folk melodies, breathing new life into the rich tradition of the chordless trio. Laurenzi/Ernst/Green will be releasing its first album, “Sightline”, in Fall 2013.