Director of Jazz Orchestra
Originally from Taipei, Taiwan, Jeff Chang is a dedicated educator who has been shaping young minds since 2007. His passion for music education has earned him significant acclaim, including being named a quarterfinalist for the prestigious 2025 Music Educator Award from the Recording Academy and GRAMMY Museum. Under his leadership, the Decatur High School Jazz Band earned an Outstanding High School Large Ensemble award in the 47th Annual Downbeat Student Music Awards.
Jeff currently serves as the director of bands at Curtis High School in University Place, Wash. In the fall of 2024, he also joined the faculty at the University of Puget Sound as the director of the Jazz Orchestra. Additionally, he is the jazz director for the Birch Bay Band Directors Workshop and the jazz curriculum officer for the Washington Music Educators Association (WMEA).
Beyond his teaching and leadership roles, Jeff is an active performer and clinician both in the Pacific Northwest and internationally. Through his artistry, he continues to inspire students and musicians with his deep knowledge and talent.
EDUCATION
BA -- Cal State Hayward, 2000
MM -- New England Conservatory, 2003
Grad. Diploma -- New England Conservatory, 2005
Music Education Certification – Peabody Institute Johns Hopkins University, 2007