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Final Program


2025 Program Guide
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JazzWire Adult Learner Track
JazzWire Adult Learner Track

Alex Heitlinger

Elon University
Greensboro, North Carolina

Dr. Alex Heitlinger is a jazz composer, trombonist, and educator whose “vibrantly fresh, brilliantly hued compositions” (Neil Tesser) display “appealing hooks and rich harmonies” (Darcy Argue), and “an abundance of sonic warmth” (Downbeat). A three-time ASCAP Young Jazz Composer Award winner, Heitlinger first established his compositional voice with his debut album Green Light (Synergy Music), featuring a Colorado-based sextet including pianist Art Lande (a longtime friend, mentor, and collaborator), trumpeter Greg Gisbert, and saxophonist Peter Sommer. This was soon followed by The Daily Life of Uncle Roger (self-released), a second small-group album with a stellar lineup of New York musicians including trumpeter Shane Endsley, pianist Erik Deutsch, and drummer Tony Moreno. Described as “pensive, plush, panoramic post-bop” (Downbeat), the album garnered positive reviews from numerous publications. Released in 2024, Heitlinger’s long-awaited third studio album Slush Pump Truck Stop (SteepleChase) “showcases a multifaceted collection of distinct pieces and imaginative settings” (Neil Tesser). This ambitious big band project brings together an all-star cast of musicians including drummer John Riley, trombonist John Fedchock, pianist Carmen Staaf, saxophonist Michael Thomas, guitarist Corey Christiansen, and many other outstanding musicians.
While respected for his more "serious" work, Heitlinger is perhaps best known for creating the infamous jazz montage The Lick (released in 2011), which currently has over 4.9 million views on YouTube and has become a widespread music meme.

Heitlinger currently serves as Assistant Professor of Music and Director of Jazz Studies at Elon University in North Carolina.

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