Testimonials

Earl Phillips is a rare combination: he's a consummate, inspired and experienced educator who is also a working player and bandleader.  He brings the realities and energy of the real music business into his classrooms and rehearsals.  His involvement with the Thad Jones Archive here at William Paterson has been invaluable, not only because of his spot-on (and fast!) Finale copywork, but also because of his musicianship, positive energy, and deep care for the music and its legacy."

Each year I bring in numerous clinicians to work with our jazz students and without question, Earl Phillips is our favorite and most anticipated clinician every year. He relates to the high school students and speaks about jazz in a language that they fully understand. His creativity always brings the students to the next level. As a music educator, I actively pursue clinicians who not only enrich the students learning but mine as well. He never fails to open our eyes to new ideas and helps students perform to their full potential. In one rehearsal, he managed to give us a fresh new direction and inspired us with his infectious excitement. He truly cares about the education of all students and will go out of his way to help any student looking to improve their skills. I called Mr. Phillips about a trombone lick my students were struggling to perform and within one day, he took the time out of his busy teaching schedule to create a video with demonstrations on how to improve. Bringing in Mr. Phillips to work with your groups will undoubtedly excite and re-energize your students love for jazz.