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Jazz Studies
The Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies at Texas University offers an intensive program designed for students passionate about jazz performance, theory, and history. Over the four year curriculum, students develop technical proficiency on their primary instrument, cultivate improvisational skills, study jazz theory and harmony, and explore the historical and cultural contexts of jazz music. The program emphasizes performance excellence, creative expression, analytical thinking, and collaborative musicianship, preparing students to interpret, perform, and innovate within jazz traditions. Coursework combines individual lessons, ensemble participation, music theory, and applied workshops, allowing students to refine technique, develop stylistic versatility, and cultivate a personal artistic voice.
As students advance, they engage in ensemble performances, advanced improvisation, composition, arranging, and collaborative projects that deepen musical understanding and professional readiness. The curriculum fosters critical listening, creative problem solving, and research skills, providing students with the tools to perform professionally, compose original works, and analyze complex musical structures. By the final year, learners are prepared to present polished recitals, contribute to ensemble projects at a professional level, and conduct independent research or original composition, equipping them for careers in performance, education, composition, or further graduate study in music.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Jazz Studies
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Music
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 December 2025
- Location: University of Texas at Austin, United States
- Field of Study: Music
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 Foundations of Jazz Studies
• Jazz Theory and Harmony I
• Applied Lessons on Primary Instrument
• Ear Training and Sight Reading
• Introduction to Jazz History
Year 2 Intermediate Jazz Performance
• Jazz Improvisation Techniques
• Ensemble Participation I
• Music Technology and Recording
• Jazz Composition Fundamentals
Year 3 Advanced Jazz Studies
• Advanced Improvisation and Solo Performance
• Arranging and Composition for Jazz Ensembles
• Ensemble Participation II
• Jazz Pedagogy and Teaching Methods
Year 4 Specialization and Capstone Project
• Senior Recital or Ensemble Showcase
• Independent Composition Project
• Advanced Jazz Seminar
• Professional Practices in Music
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for a wide range of careers in music performance, education, and production. Opportunities include professional jazz performance, music composition, arranging, teaching and music education, ensemble direction, and roles in recording studios, festivals, and media production. Graduates may also work in arts administration, community music programs, or pursue graduate studies in jazz performance, music education, composition, or related fields. The program equips students with the skills to perform at a professional level, innovate creatively, collaborate effectively, and navigate the dynamic professional music environment.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students who want to develop technical mastery, improvisational skill, creative expression, and professional musicianship in jazz music through a curriculum that combines performance, theory, history, and applied projects. Its four year structure allows learners to progress from foundational studies to advanced improvisation, ensemble leadership, and independent composition. Students benefit from individual instruction, ensemble experience, workshops, recitals, and faculty mentorship, cultivating artistic excellence, professional readiness, and intellectual growth. Graduates leave the program with the ability to perform, compose, analyze, and innovate within jazz music, preparing them for successful careers or advanced studies in music.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 (512) 471-3434
Email: gradadmissions@utexas.edu
Address: 110 Inner Campus Drive, Stop G1800, Austin, TX 78712, USA
