"St. Charles East has the most ambitious, most adventurous, and most musically relevant instrumental program I have ever encountered. Jim Kull is totally devoted to finding new music he is excited about sharing, and he challenges and inspires his students with his enthusiasm.  His passion and devotion has created a culture within the ensemble of mutual respect and musical open-mindedness, as well as a tradition of great music-making.  I've had several opportunities to perform and coach his ensembles, and they've been always been very positive, inspiring experiences."  
Jim Bonney

“Bravo to the students of the St. Charles East High School Band! My time spent with them was a joy. The students showed a genuine love of music, and the time we shared was fabulous. My wish is that they continue their great and inspiring legacy of music-making, and that they always have fun doing so.”   
Frank Ticheli

"When there exists a program that provides so much for so many, and when the student Musicians in that atmosphere respond in much the same way as you might expect from university or professional Musicians, you realize that Great Teachers make a great difference.  That is the situation at Saint Charles ." 
Stephen Melillo

"The band was truly a pleasure to work with, and their talent and dedication is indicative of how ambitious and successful the band program is St. Charles East HS.  I was deeply honored to have the opportunity to conduct the group at Carnegie Hall, and an amazed at the musical and organizational perseverance of Jim Kull and the other directors and staff who made the entire thing possible." Steven Bryant

“One of the highlights of my career was the wonderful May 13, 2004 concert of my wind & percussion music played by the St. Charles East High School bands led by Jim Kull.  This music program is one of the best I have encountered and Jim brings a level of musicianship to his students that is very rare in school music.  When my music is played at St. Charles East H.S. I know it is in the best of hands.”
Timothy Broege

"It’s a real joy for a composer like myself to work with an ensemble   so dedicated to quality performances of new works—I have yet to find   their equal in adventurousness and musical spirit."

Jonathan Newman