Music Faculty - Michael Bazan

Michael Bazan has served as an adjunct music instructor at McHenry County College since 1982. At MCC, he directs the jazz ensemble and teaches applied woodwinds.

Upon completion of his undergraduate degree at Northern Illinois University, he earned a Talented Musician Scholarship that allowed him to pursue his Master's degree at DePaul University. As the lead alto sax in the DePaul jazz ensemble, he was awarded an Outstanding Jazz Soloist Award at the Elmhurst College Jazz Festival. He was chosen to perform at the National Association of Jazz Educators National Convention in Dallas, Texas.

Bazan is currently enjoying his eleventh year as Director of Bands at Wredling Middle School. Under his leadership, Wredling Middle School Bands have received accolades and numerous awards. Bazan directs the Jazz Ensemble and co-directs the Honors Concert Band.

As a professional musician, Bazan has played saxophone, flute and clarinet with a number of musical legends, including: Billy Eckstine, Cab Calloway, Bob Hope, Jerry Lewis, Frankie Valley, The Platters, The Four Tops, The Buckinghams, Rob McConnel, The Shirelles, Milton Berle, The Dorsey Brothers Orchestra and legendary entertainer Jerry Lewis. He has also performed in various symphony orchestras, including the Rockford Symphony Orchestra and the Galesburg Symphony. An active musician, Bazan continues to learn and perform in the Chicago area and throughout the Midwest. His musicianship can be appreciated on numerous commercials and several "Veggie Tales"