Bill Sears has been director of jazz studies and instructor of saxophone at the Interlochen Arts Academy since 1987 and at the Interlochen Arts Camp since 2010. The award winning jazz ensemble and combos, under Mr. Sears' leadership, are considered to be among the finest high school groups in the country. An active jazz saxophonist, Mr. Sears has performed, toured and recorded with many leading musicians including Ray Charles, Dizzy Gillespie, Saxophonist Bill Evans, Rick Margitza, Peter Erskine, Art Farmer, Joe Williams and Nancy Wilson. He has two CD's under his own leadership, "Chasin' The Goal" and "With One Accord," both of which feature not only his engaging and individual saxophone voice, but also several of his compositions. He has also performed in backup orchestras for many popular artists including Natalie Cole, Aretha Franklin, Tony Bennett and The Temptations. Mr. Sears is a Conn-Selmer performing artist and clinician.