Monika Herzig Oral History

Jazz pianist, composer, bandleader, and author Monika Herzig has built an international career shaped by curiosity, collaboration, and a deep commitment to musical storytelling. Born and raised in Germany, she discovered jazz at an early age and followed that passion across continents—first to the University of Alabama for her undergraduate studies, and then to Indiana University Bloomington, where she completed her doctorate and became deeply connected to Indiana’s musical legacy.

Throughout her career, Monika performed with and learned from some of Indiana’s most significant jazz figures. Her experiences playing with David Baker, as well as her extensive research for her authoritative book on his life and impact, reveal her longstanding dedication to preserving and understanding jazz history. She also became part of the rich community of musicians tied to the historic Indiana Avenue scene, performing with legends such as the Hampton Sisters, Mingo Jones, Alonzo “Pookie” Johnson, Jimmy Coe, and others who shaped Indiana’s jazz identity.

Part of the Amazing Indiana Music Stories series, supported by the Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation, Monika’s Interview Highlight and the Complete Interview capture her remarkable journey from Germany to the Midwest and her ongoing influence as a performer, educator, and advocate for jazz.

In this short video, Monika Herzig reflects on her experiences performing with David Baker and the legendary musicians of Indiana Avenue, offering a glimpse into the influences and relationships that shaped her musical journey.

In the full interview, Monika Herzig shares a deeper look at her life and career—from her early years in Germany and studies in Alabama and Indiana to her work as a performer, composer, educator, and author. She discusses her collaborations with David Baker, her extensive research for her book on his legacy, and her experiences performing with celebrated musicians from the historic Indiana Avenue scene.