The Knox Jazz Year continued its stellar tradition of performances at the Orpheum Theatre on Friday, January 24, as the Mirza Jazz Residency brought saxophonist and singer Camille Thurman and the Darrell Green Quartet to the stage, alongside the Cherry St. Combo and the Knox Jazz Ensemble.

This year’s residency marked the first to feature a vocalist as the visiting artist. Thurman worked closely with students throughout the week, leading collaborative rehearsals and masterclasses focused on developing their musical skills. A standout session was a scat workshop, which provided students with a unique opportunity to expand their jazz repertoire vocally, along with a history class on blues and more.

“Knox students have a beautiful spirit. I’ve enjoyed being able to engage with them and get deep into the music,” Thurman said.

The culminating performance on Friday showcased Thurman’s vocal prowess and skillful saxophone playing, as she joined both the Knox Jazz Ensemble and Cherry St. Combo for their individual sets. To close the show, Thurman led the Darrell Green Quartet in a dynamic mix of saxophone solos and powerful vocal passages. The performance highlighted her exceptional talent, complemented by the quartet, which included trumpet, piano, bass, and drums.

Following the residency, Knox students shared their reflections on Thurman’s impact and the value of her workshops.

“Camille was awesome. She was down to earth, as most of the Mirza artists are. She was definitely the most versatile artist I've encountered, simply because she can play sax, sing, and scat at a professional level. The whole week was invaluable for my musical growth,” Benjamin SmithRaley ’27 said.

“Camille was a fantastic guest for the week, a true keeper of the jazz tradition,” Chieko Dunham ’25 said. “In her workshops and lessons, she helped me refine some essential skills for my musicianship. She also offered great advice for the bands in preparation for their big performance at the Orpheum. I can't thank her enough for her help!”

Andy Crawford ’00, managing director of Knox College’s music performance program, was thrilled with this year’s residency. He found Thurman’s workshops approachable for the students, providing insight without overwhelming those new to the music. 

“I chose Camille for her versatility, both vocally and instrumentally,” Crawford explained. “She could connect with everyone, whether they were focused on vocals or instrumental skills. That’s a rare and valuable perspective. From a concert standpoint, vocal performances tend to draw people in. Everyone has a voice, and that makes the music feel more personal and accessible.”

Crawford was thrilled to bring such a rare talent to Galesburg for the entire community to enjoy together. 

“She is a phenomenal singer, and I would say she may be among the best in the jazz scene today. I was blown away,” he said.

The residency is supported by the Jerome Mirza Foundation, established in honor of the late attorney and jazz enthusiast Jerome Mirza. His daughter, Candace Mirza, a 1981 Knox graduate, continues to uphold her father’s legacy by supporting programs that educate and inspire through jazz.