Jazz on the Grass | Foundation | Chicago State University

Jazz on the Grass

Each year, Chicago State University hosts Jazz on the Grass on or off campus, inviting the community to enjoy the current CSU Jazz Band perform. The picnic-like atmosphere is one for connecting with neighbors, family and friends.

Jazz on the Grass, and other community engagements, are made possible by the Presidential Leadership Fund which also supports the Marching Soul of Chicago, Marching Band Camp, Presidential Lecture Series, and so much more! Support the Presidential Leadership Fund with a gift today.

In 2023, The Chicago State Jazz Band was joined by special guest Jazz performers for two exciting events

On September 7, the CSU Jazz Band was joined by jazz musician, producer and CSU alumna Margaret Murphy-Webb. Dubbed the Queen of 75th Street, Murphy-Webb has been a staple in Chicago's Jazz scene for decades, performing and recording with industry legends locally, nationally, and internationally.

On September 21, the CSU Jazz Band was joined by Chicagoan, singer, songwriter and composer Carolyn Fitzhugh. Learning piano at age 5, decades later Fitzhugh left her 30-year accounting career to pursue music full time. Releasing her debut album almost a decade ago, Fitzhugh has been a staple in the Chicago Jazz scene ever since.