Kirby Fellis

Instructor of Jazz Trombone

Kirby Fellis is a Chicago-based jazz trombonist, composer and educator whose artistry bridges tradition and innovation. A South Florida native, Kirby has spent more than a decade performing alongside some of the most celebrated musicians in jazz and beyond.

Kirby holds a B.A. in jazz studies from Michigan State University and an M.M. in jazz studies from Northern Illinois University, where he studied under trombone luminaries Tom Garling, Michael Dease and Andre Hayward. His versatility and technical command on the horn has earned him recognition from Jazz at Lincoln Center, the Illinois Music Education Association, Jazz Aspen Snowmass, the Detroit Jazz Festival, the Chicago Jazz Festival and many others.

As a performer, Kirby has appeared with icons such as Darius Rucker, Common, Kurt Elling, Nate Smith, Sean Jones, Russell Malone, the Danny Jonokuchi Big Band, Rodney Whitaker and Jennifer Hudson. His work with ensembles like The Chicago Philharmonic, the legendary Count Basie Orchestra and The Tom Garling Jazz Orchestra has solidified his reputation as one of Chicago’s most sought-after trombonists, regularly touring and recording across the country.

An equally passionate educator, Kirby is a committed member of the Jazz Education Network (JEN), the International Trombone Association (ITA), Birch Creek Music Performance Center and the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra’s jazz program. Guided by master educators Rodney Whitaker, Ron Carter, Reggie Thomas and Christopher Dorsey, Kirby has crafted a teaching philosophy rooted in mentorship, versatility and lifelong musicianship. He brings this approach to clinics, masterclasses, adjudication and consultations nationwide.

Kirby currently serves as full-time music faculty at Harper College, while also teaching jazz trombone at both the University of Illinois at Chicago and Northern Illinois University. Whether on stage or in the classroom, his mission is to inspire the next generation of musicians while advancing the rich legacy of jazz.