Who is Evan LeBouef?

Evan LeBouef (b.1994) is a composer, jazz musician, and educator who challenges genre boundaries and reimagines traditional concepts of music. Originally from Texas, Evan began his musical journey as a saxophonist before transitioning to bass in his adult life, a shift that reshaped his approach to composition. His experience with multiple instruments, combined with a passion for arranging, gives him a unique perspective in his compositions, which blend jazz, folk, rock, and protest music. He is currently pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts in Jazz Studies at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln as a Hixson-Lied Doctoral Fellow, where he works closely with faculty and students to explore new ways of integrating jazz with other musical forms.

Evan is working on four exciting albums: one focused on protest music, another centered around large ensemble jazz compositions, a third for his trio focused on music around state trees, and an album for his folk-rock band. In his big band work, he uses texture and phrasing as melodic devices, ensuring that each part in the ensemble contributes meaningfully. His compositions often take familiar songs and reimagine them in ways that bring out hidden beauty, introducing jazz to listeners who may not have otherwise been exposed to it.

As an educator, Evan is passionate about helping teachers better equip their students with the skills needed to play rhythm section instruments—an area that many public school teachers find challenging. He regularly offers workshops and clinics to teach educators how to approach rhythm section instruction in an accessible way, enabling them to help students develop a deeper understanding of rhythm, harmony, and improvisation. He believes that even the most difficult music can be used as a tool for learning and should be made enjoyable for students at all levels.

Evan’s teaching philosophy is rooted in inclusivity and engagement. He works to ensure that all musicians, regardless of their skill level, can find joy in playing and gain something meaningful from every part they play. Whether composing, performing, or teaching, Evan’s work focuses on making music accessible and engaging for all, breaking down genre barriers and inspiring a lifelong love of music.