Sam Pilnick

Sam Pilnick is a Chicago-based saxophonist, multi-instrumentalist, composer, and dedicated music educator, known for leading both small groups and large ensembles like The Sam Pilnick Project and Sam Pilnick’s Nonet. He earned his Bachelor of Music in Music Education and Jazz Studies from the Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam, where he regularly performed with a variety of school and community groups and studied under notable musicians like Christopher Creviston and Robert Young. Pilnick continued his education as a Jazz Studies major and graduate assistant at Western Michigan University, learning from respected jazz artists such as Andrew Rathbun and Jeremy Siskind.

A passionate teacher, he’s held positions at several Chicago-area schools, including as band director at the Chicago Math and Science Academy and Saint Viator High School, and has also taught at the People’s Music School and Chicago Public School’s All City Performing Arts Jazz Ensemble. As a recording artist, Sam has released projects such as East Coast Transplant, Pure Imagination, Skylark, and The Adler Suite, all featuring his original compositions and fresh takes on jazz standards. He continues to balance a busy performing career with his work as an educator, aiming to bring firsthand musical experience and enthusiasm to his students.