MEET THE MEMBERS

MEET THE MEMBERS

Southern University Jazz Ensemble Members

Southern University Jazz Ensemble, Member, SU Jazz, Southern Jazz, School for Jazz, School for Music, Jazz Education, Jazz Studies, Baton Rouge Jazz, Baton Rouge, Jazz, Music, Music Education, Alvin Batiste Jazz Institute, Southern University Jazz

  • Corey Hatfield is a member of the SU Jazz Ensemble.

Southern University Jazz Ensemble, Member, SU Jazz, Southern Jazz, School for Jazz, School for Music, Jazz Education, Jazz Studies, Baton Rouge Jazz, Baton Rouge, Jazz, Music, Music Education, Alvin Batiste Jazz Institute, Southern University Jazz

  • Derrick Johns Jr. is a versatile alto saxophonist whose sound is as deeply rooted in the history of jazz as it is forward-looking. While participating in the jazz band, he is also a member of the Human Jukebox, the Southern University Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band, an educator at the Marcus Johnson Jazz Camp sponsored by the Gulf Coast Heritage and Jazz Festival, and a member of the Jazz Education Network.

    Born and raised in Mobile, Alabama, (the birthplace of Mardi Gras) Derrick's musical journey began at the age of thirteen in the Clark Shaw Magnet Middle School band. This early foundation quickly evolved into a dedicated study of the masters—from Cannonball Adderley to Johnny Hodges and to contemporary innovators like Immanuel Wilkins.

    During his tenure as third year music education major, his music abilities has taken him around the country: from San Francisco, California to the heart of New Orleans, Louisiana performing at the New Orleans Jazz Festival. As he begins to enter his final year of college, he aims to gain a doctorate in Education and continues to inspire the next generation of musicians around the world.

    "Music has been more than just a class, but a place to express and heal myself. The experiences I was given through music have given me knowledge on how to develop my discipline and how to mentor others on the craft."

    — Derrick Johns Jr.

Southern University Jazz Ensemble, Member, SU Jazz, Southern Jazz, School for Jazz, School for Music, Jazz Education, Jazz Studies, Baton Rouge Jazz, Baton Rouge, Jazz, Music, Music Education, Alvin Batiste Jazz Institute, Southern University Jazz

  • Donovan White is a 19-year-old music major at Southern University and A&M College, where he proudly carries on the tradition of musical excellence represented by the Alvin Batiste Jazz Band. Music has been a central part of his life and growth, shaping not only his career aspirations but also the way he interacts with the world.

    He began his journey in jazz through performance opportunities that challenged him to grow both technically and creatively. In 2023, he earned 1st chair tenor saxophone in the WTSBOA Jazz Band Red Band, and in 2024, he achieved 2nd chair tenor saxophone in the WTSBOA Jazz Band Blue Band. He is also an alumnus of the Memphis Jazz Workshop, an experience that deeply influenced his understanding of jazz as both an art form and a community. These opportunities not only honed his musicianship but also taught him the importance of collaboration, listening, and compromise—skills he considers among his greatest strengths.

    As a college student, Donovan enjoys immersing himself in different musical styles, from neo-soul and bossa nova to hip-hop, because each genre expands his ear and broadens his creative vocabulary. Beyond music, he finds inspiration in reading and exploring storytelling through horror films, both of which deepen his perspective as an artist.

    His mission as a musician is to use the tools and knowledge passed down to him to inspire others, just as his mentors inspired him. He believes music is not only a form of expression but also a means of connection and education.

    Looking ahead, Donovan’s goal is to become a performing musician who shares jazz and other genres with audiences worldwide. At the same time, he aspires to teach and guide future musicians, ensuring that the traditions and values of jazz continue to thrive for generations to come.

    For Donovan, music is more than what he does—it is who he is. Every performance is a chance to honor the legacies that have shaped him while adding his own voice to the story of jazz.

Southern University Jazz Ensemble, Member, SU Jazz, Southern Jazz, School for Jazz, School for Music, Jazz Education, Jazz Studies, Baton Rouge Jazz, Baton Rouge, Jazz, Music, Music Education, Alvin Batiste Jazz Institute, Southern University Jazz

  • Hi there! My name is Grace Bettis.

    Growing up in Louisiana, jazz has always been a part of my life, attached to some of my happiest memories. Being part of the Southern University Jazz Ensemble is enabling me to share that joy with many others!

    I am a junior music education major. I enjoy both playing and listening to music, drawing, reading, and writing. Outside of practicing my own instruments, most of my time is spent with my students as an assistant band director.

    My ultimate goal is to one day open my own K-12 academy of the arts in my home town. Music is my passion. I am determined to shape young minds, open doors, and change lives one note at a time!

Southern University Jazz Ensemble, Member, SU Jazz, Southern Jazz, School for Jazz, School for Music, Jazz Education, Jazz Studies, Baton Rouge Jazz, Baton Rouge, Jazz, Music, Music Education, Alvin Batiste Jazz Institute, Southern University Jazz

  • Hannah Thompson is a junior at Southern University and A&M College majoring in Business Management. At just 20 years old, she has already established herself as a dedicated student, a passionate musician, and an emerging leader.

    Alongside her academic pursuits, Hannah enjoys exercising, practicing music, praying and maintaining balance in her daily life through simple activities such as cleaning and organizing. As a college student, Hannah thrives on preparation and community engagement. She takes pride in motivating her peers to be the best version of themselves while offering her support in any way she can. Hannah’s ability to balance academic responsibilities with her personal commitments reflects her strong sense of discipline and her genuine care for others.

    Hannah’s skills and strengths highlight her versatility and professionalism. She is known for her sense of humor and polished image, but also for her cooperation, organizational abilities, planning skills, and effective communication in professional settings. These qualities extend beyond the classroom into her musical career.

    Her accomplishments as a performer speak to her talent and dedication. Hannah has performed at several notable venues including the Baton Rouge’s Renaissance Hotel, Downtown Baton Rouge’s Galvez Plaza, Southeastern University’s Bill Evan’s Festival, Loyola University’s Jazz Festival and many more. Each performance has allowed her to showcase her artistry while inspiring audiences with her passion for jazz music.

    Driven by a personal mission, Hannah states “I want to be a role model for younger female musicians who may feel under pressure to be their true authentic self in the music field.” She is committed to breaking barriers in a male-dominated industry by advocating for gender equality in jazz and beyond.

    Looking ahead, Hannah aspires to become the CEO of her own all-women jazz band. Her vision is not to compete with male musicians, but to spread awareness that women musicians can be equally talented and deserving of recognition. She seeks to create a platform where female jazz artists are celebrated for their skill, authenticity, and contributions to the art form.

    With her strong foundation in business, her dedication to music, and her commitment to empowering others, Hannah Thompson continues to grow as both a leader and an artist, determined to make an impact in her community and the wider music industry.

Southern University Jazz Ensemble, Member, SU Jazz, Southern Jazz, School for Jazz, School for Music, Jazz Education, Jazz Studies, Baton Rouge Jazz, Baton Rouge, Jazz, Music, Music Education, Alvin Batiste Jazz Institute, Southern University Jazz

  • Isaiah Travis is a multi-instrumentalist and student musician at Southern University, where he’s majoring in Music Technology & Business Entrepreneurship. He is the guitarist for the Southern University Jazz Ensemble, playing bass if needed. Originally from Atlanta, Georgia, Isaiah has also lived in Las Vegas, Nevada, and Lafayette, Louisiana. These experiences living in very different places have influenced both his music and outlook on life. While he plays guitar, bass guitar, and piano, his main passion is the guitar, which has been his primary instrument for years.

    At Southern University, Isaiah stays active outside the classroom through his involvement in campus organizations like the NAACP and the Men’s Federation. He values leadership, service, and using his time to make a positive impact within the community. When he isn’t studying or performing, Isaiah enjoys giving back through community service, such as voter drives or helping to teach high school students professional skills. Isaiah also enjoys fishing on a quiet day or spending quality time with family and friends.

    Isaiah is currently available for booking in the Baton Rouge area and is eager to play for new audiences and connect with more musicians. With his dedication to his craft and his consistent desire to improve, he continues to grow as both an artist and a student, aiming to leave a positive impact wherever he goes.

    You can follow and connect with Isaiah via the following links:

    LinkedIn and Instagram

Southern University Jazz Ensemble, Member, SU Jazz, Southern Jazz, School for Jazz, School for Music, Jazz Education, Jazz Studies, Baton Rouge Jazz, Baton Rouge, Jazz, Music, Music Education, Alvin Batiste Jazz Institute, Southern University Jazz

  • Joshua Stewart is an 18-year-old freshman majoring in Music Performance. He has had a passion for music from a young age and spends much of his time recording, editing, and playing music—especially piano, which serves as both a creative outlet and a source of peace. At college, Joshua enjoys immersing himself in his major through private piano lessons and daily jazz band practice. He was recognized as the Outstanding Percussionist in his high school marching band and currently plays for two churches and two gospel choirs. His strengths include helping others, playing piano, organ, and drums, and having the rare ability to play music by ear. Joshua is driven by a deep love for music and is motivated by the encouragement he receives from those who enjoy his playing. In the future, he hopes to continue performing, start his own band, and pursue a career as a music producer.

Southern University Jazz Ensemble, Member, SU Jazz, Southern Jazz, School for Jazz, School for Music, Jazz Education, Jazz Studies, Baton Rouge Jazz, Baton Rouge, Jazz, Music, Music Education, Alvin Batiste Jazz Institute, Southern University Jazz

  • KEENA NICOLE PILLETTE

    Keena Nicole Pillette is a 22-year-old senior soprano, an accomplished performer at Southern University and A&M College. Known for her rich, expressive tone and versatility across genres, Keena brings passion and artistry to every stage- performing in classical, jazz, R&B, Broadway, and gospel styles.

    A proud member of the Southern University Gospel Choir, Concert Choir, and Jazz Ensemble, Keena has student-directed both the Gospel Choir and the Concert Choir. She joined the Southern University Jazz Ensemble the same year under the direction of Mr. Roderick Paulin, where she continues to refine her dynamic musical range.

    Keena’s exceptional talent has earned her numerous opportunities to represent Southern University on prestigious platforms. She is a winner of the NATS (National Association of Teachers of Singing) Competition in the Spirituals Category and has been featured as a soloist at Southern University’s Commencement Ceremonies. With the Southern University Gospel Choir, she has performed at Harvard University and the Bayou Classic, embodying the excellence and legacy of Southern University through song.

    As a classically trained opera singer, Keena has appeared in productions such as Rigoletto, Motown to Mozart at the Manship Theater in Baton Rouge, Amahl and the Night Visitors, and Emmett Till with Opera Southern. She also had the honor of guest performing at the Spirituals Program at Nicholls State University.

    Beyond the concert hall, Keena is a charter member of the Thespian Society, where she performed in the university’s stage production A Southern Thing and helps host various theater events. She also has performed at Southern University basketball games, bringing her vibrant stage presence and soulful vocals to campus events.

    In her free time, Keena continues to share her gift through private and public engagements where her repertoire ranges from German lied to Beyoncé, reflecting both her technical skill and artistic versatility.

    With her deep musicality, leadership, and unwavering dedication, Keena Nicole Pillette continues to uplift audiences and represent Southern University with grace, excellence, and an unmistakable voice that transcends genres and generations.

Southern University Jazz Ensemble, Member, SU Jazz, Southern Jazz, School for Jazz, School for Music, Jazz Education, Jazz Studies, Baton Rouge Jazz, Baton Rouge, Jazz, Music, Music Education, Alvin Batiste Jazz Institute, Southern University Jazz

  • Kian Washington is a rising jazz drummer and freshman at Southern University, where he is quickly making a name for himself within the university’s vibrant music scene. A Baton Rouge native, Kian's passion for rhythm and improvisation took root at an early age and developed through years of dedication, discipline, and deep respect for the jazz tradition. His drumming style blends classic swing with modern rhythmic innovation, showcasing both technical precision and expressive creativity.

    Even before stepping onto Southern’s campus as a student, Kian had already begun building his reputation as a serious musician. During his senior year of high school, he was invited to perform regularly with a local college jazz band — a rare honor that demonstrated not only his advanced skill level but also his maturity as a performer. Playing alongside more experienced college musicians helped sharpen Kian’s instincts and broaden his musical vocabulary, preparing him well for the demands of college-level performance.

    Now a freshman in Southern University’s renowned jazz studies program, Kian continues to grow under the mentorship of esteemed faculty and through collaborations with fellow student musicians. His playing reflects a deep appreciation for legends like Art Blakey and Elvin Jones, while also incorporating contemporary influences that point toward an exciting future. With his drive, talent, and humility, Kian Washington is poised to become one of the standout young voices in the next generation of jazz.