“You realize that you have a lot of stories that come alive when you have someone to share with.”

—Fernando Jones, Blues Ensemble Director • 773-841-5262 • Bluesnewz@aol.com

Chicago is known worldwide as the home of the Blues, a musical form that connects America to its roots. The Chicago Blues Ensemble, a student group led by noted Bluesman Fernando Jones, makes Columbia College part of that tradition. Young men and women come together from all over the country to play with the group. “They represent the new face of the Blues,” says Jones. “They’re the sweethearts of the Blues scene here in Chicago.” The Blues may seem an unlikely subject to be learned in a classroom, but it makes perfect sense at Columbia. Students in every department are encouraged to leave the classroom, get out of the studio, and take advantage of all Chicago has to offer. The city is our classroom. And Chicago is the Blues.

    -Columbia College Chicago Annual Report