Creative growth through improvisation
Welcome to the web site of Bill Chapin, jazz pianist and teacher. Bill plays and teaches jazz piano and bass, leads his own jazz combo, and coordinates the Grayslake Jazz Combo Workshop from his creative space, Chapin Jazz Studio. Explore the site and sign up for the monthly newsletter to learn more about opportunities to learn jazz at the studio and to hear jazz where Bill is playing.
Chapin Jazz X-tet @ 129 Center Cut
Join us from 3:30-5 pm to play some jazz tunes. The jam is a friendly environment where musicians can try out and learn more about improvising jazz. And it’s free! Want to improve as an improviser? Come join us!
CSJ Jazz Jam Dates for 2024-25:
Dec 15 | Jan 12 | Feb 9 | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | May 4
CJS Sunday Jazz Jam
Students of all ages who can read music are welcome at the Sunday Jazz Jams…
Next Jam? Sun, Dec 15th
A ticket (which is free) is required to play at the CJS Sunday Jazz Jam, just to help Mr. Chapin set up for, manage the event, and make sure everyone has plenty of chances to play.
Click here to get your free jam session ticket!
Chapin Jazz X-tet Recording
Gigs
The Bill Chapin Jazz X-tet, a combo performing modern jazz, performs regularly in the Chicago area. Playing in formats from one to six pieces, the X-tet provides the sleek sound of solo piano, the pulse of a trio, or the harmonies of a full combo with saxophone, trumpet and trombone. Perfect for upscale dining and lounges, classy cocktail hours and receptions, fundraisers and galas, and corporate events.
Lessons
The Chapin Jazz Studio offers lessons for the serious jazz pianist, for instrumentalists wanting to learn theory and explore jazz piano, and for anyone wanting to experience the fun of playing jazz piano. The studio also offers a monthly jazz jam session, jazz solo coaching, and instruction on jazz bass and composition. The Grayslake Jazz Combo Workshop, where students study jazz every summer, also calls the studio home.
Meet Bill Chapin
Drew Chapin Scholarship
Funds for the annual $2,500 scholarship are raised through donations through the Grayslake Central High School Online Store.