Profile
Jazz Band Director
Barb Catlin, has been at Caltech since 2013 as the director of jazz and manager of the recording studio. She also directs the jazz program at Pomona College.
Barb's enthusiasm for playing, real-life approach to education, and expertise in the rhythm section has made her a popular clinician at the high school and college levels. Barb has directed the California All-State Junior High Jazz Band, the SCSBOA Honor Jazz Ensemble, the Arizona All-State High School Jazz Band, the Wisconsin All-State Honor Jazz Band, and many regional honor ensembles. In addition to teaching, Barb numerous accolades as a jazz pianist include being named a "Player to Catch" by Downbeat Magazine.
Barb was awarded the "Lifetime Achievement Award" by Jazz in Arizona and was awarded the California Jazz Educator "Paul Shaghoian" Award from CMEA in 2021. Barb currently serves as President for the California Alliance for Jazz.