DENTON (UNT), Texas — The University of North Texas College of Music professor of jazz saxophone Brad Leali received the Ellis Marsalis Jr. Jazz Educator of the Year Award by the Jazz Education Network.

The award, which was celebrated in the June issue of DownBeat magazine, is named after the legendary jazz educator to recognize an “outstanding college or university educator in the field of jazz, who represents the highest standards of teaching and whose results have brought distinction to their institution and their students.”

A distinguished saxophonist and educator, Leali has performed with renowned groups and artists and has made a significant impact on jazz education as a professor at UNT. Known for his student-focused teaching and artistic excellence, he inspires his students to achieve their full potential, earning recognition from the Jazz Education Network for his contributions to the jazz community.”

“Professor Brad Leali has been — and continues to be — a major influencer in jazz performance, jazz education, and performance across so many musical genres,” said John W. Richmond, Ph.D., professor and dean of UNT’s College of Music. “His impact on the student success of jazz saxophonists here in the UNT College of Music Division of Jazz Studies has been immeasurable and sets a standard the inspires his colleagues across the globe. We could not be more fortunate to have such a consequential jazz artist/teacher on our faculty.”

In addition, numerous UNT music students were recognized in the DownBeat 49th Student Music Award Winners. Congratulations to our students: