Jazz Studies

The jazz studies area is committed to the highest level of performance, mentoring, education, and community outreach. This unique curriculum features nationally and internationally renowned faculty members drawn from the highest ranks of the jazz community. All faculty members have experience performing with top-notch recording and performing artists in the jazz music industry.

The jazz studies area creates an environment conducive to developing the next generation of jazz musicians—one that fosters artistic expression, innovation, and the exploration of blues-based improvisation, bebop, swing, blues, and soul music. Courses are taught through master classes, private studies, and studio classes.

Each student receives private lessons with an applied studies professor; these sessions are intended to introduce creative ideas for improvisational proficiency, aid the translation of theoretical principles to performance ideas, and increase general understanding of the jazz era and jazz tradition in relation to the student’s particular instrument.

Students have many opportunities for outreach at their fingertips. Students and faculty frequently participate in community residencies throughout Michigan and conduct workshops, concerts, and master classes with children in various public schools in Lansing and Detroit through the College of Music’s outreach and engagement program.

As for employment opportunities while studying at the college, students are often compensated through performance activities.

Student awards:

• Alto saxophonist and jazz studies master's recipient Lynn Gruenewald, a former student of Diego Rivera, was the sole recipient of the "Outstanding Musician" award at the 41st Elmhurst Jazz Festival, where 32 universities were represented. She currently lives in New York City as a freelance jazz musician and arranger.
• Noah Trevor Jackson, an undergraduate in jazz studies who studies with Rodney Whitaker, is a finalist in the 2009 International Society of Bassists Bass Competition jazz division. The next round of the competition takes place in June at Pennsylvania State University.
• Jazz studies student Ross M. Margitza took the second place prize and won the Audience Favorite Reward at the Phillips Jazz Piano Competition in Pensacola, Florida in April 2009.

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