JAZZ STUDIES

Jazz Studies at Michigan State University is committed to the highest level of performance, mentoring, education, and community outreach, providing numerous opportunities with world-renowned faculty.

All faculty in the jazz studies area at MSU have performed with top recording and performing artists in the jazz music industry and are devoted to the tradition of mentoring the next generation of jazz musicians.

Engagement at the highest level

The MSU jazz studies area offers a unique learning environment focused on developing the next generation of jazz musicians. We are committed to jazz tradition and foster artistic expression, innovation, and the exploration of blues-based improvisation, bebop, swing, and soul music. Courses are intertwined with master classes, private studies, and studio classes. Students participate in residencies and conduct workshops, concerts, and classes in public schools and academies as part of our intense focus on outreach, engagement, and the mentoring tradition in jazz.

Each student takes private lessons with an applied studies professor while also enjoying a wide range of performance opportunities. Ensembles include 12 jazz combos, four nonets and three big bands. Some of the world’s leading jazz musicians make regular visits to the College of Music to give master classes and performances. Students also work, perform, and network with legendary jazz artists through the College’s MSU Federal Credit Union Jazz Artist in Residence program.