Studio Jazz Writing
The Master of Music in Studio Jazz Writing is a two-year, full-time program crafted for musicians who aspire to compose, arrange, and orchestrate sophisticated jazz works for studio and live performance settings. With a curriculum grounded in both traditional and contemporary jazz idioms, students engage deeply with composition, harmony, orchestration, and digital music production. The program emphasizes fluency in writing for a wide variety of ensembles—from small combos to full big bands and studio orchestras—while also exploring techniques for scoring film, television, and multimedia projects. Through hands-on projects and faculty mentorship, students develop their unique voice as jazz writers and cultivate the skills needed to succeed in professional music production environments.
The academic experience is enriched by access to state-of-the-art recording studios, frequent collaboration with top-level performers, and opportunities to have original works performed and recorded. Students receive extensive training in music notation software, studio techniques, and the business of music production, allowing them to navigate both the creative and logistical aspects of the industry. Courses are led by experienced composers and arrangers with strong ties to the music industry, and learning is often project-based, mirroring real-world industry workflows. This combination of creative exploration, technical mastery, and professional preparation positions students to thrive in the evolving landscape of jazz and commercial music.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Studio Jazz Writing
- Degree Type: Master of Music
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 December 2025
- Location: University of Miami, United States
- Field of Study: Music
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Jazz Writing
• Jazz Composition Techniques
• Arranging for Small Ensemble
• Advanced Jazz Harmony
• Studio Notation and Technology
Semester 2 – Expanding Styles and Formats
• Big Band Arranging
• Contemporary Jazz Styles
• MIDI and Digital Production Techniques
• Studio Recording Workshop
Semester 3 – Industry Integration and Scoring
• Orchestration for Studio Ensembles
• Scoring for Media
• Business of Music Production
• Graduate Jazz Ensemble
Semester 4 – Capstone Development
• Portfolio and Recording Projects
• Final Composition Project
• Conducting and Rehearsal Techniques
• Directed Graduate Research
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Studio Jazz Writing program are prepared to enter diverse and competitive fields within the music, entertainment, and recording industries. Career paths include jazz composer, arranger, orchestrator, music director, media scorer, and music producer. Many work on film and TV scores, arrange music for professional ensembles and recording artists, or produce original music for games, commercials, and streaming content. Others find success in education or as freelance composers and arrangers. The comprehensive training in jazz language, orchestration, studio workflow, and digital production tools equips graduates with a rare combination of artistic creativity and industry-ready skills, enabling them to lead projects from conception to final mix across both live and digital platforms.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for those who want to blend artistic originality with professional readiness in the world of jazz and studio composition. With its rich combination of theoretical instruction, hands-on arranging experience, and access to top-tier studio resources, students are immersed in an environment that mirrors the demands of the industry. Opportunities to collaborate with skilled performers, produce fully realized recordings, and receive real-time feedback from accomplished faculty create a powerful incubator for professional growth. The program not only sharpens compositional and arranging skills but also instills the production and leadership abilities necessary to bring creative visions to life. For those committed to shaping the sound of modern jazz and media music, this degree offers an inspiring and practical pathway forward.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 305 284 2000
Email: admissions@miami.edu
Address: University of Miami, 1320 S Dixie Hwy, Coral Gables, FL 33146, United States
