For current students: Fall 2024 Ensembles Audition Information
A wide variety of performance opportunities await our students each year, with orchestras, bands, choirs and opera, jazz nonets and combos, small ensembles, and more.
A variety of programs and initiatives operate continuously or annually to enhance learning experiences and help students prepare for their future in music.
The MSU College of Music supports and challenges students, values innovation and creativity, and helps every community member achieve professional excellence.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Enjoy a blend of jazz works by Rodney Whitaker and Charles Ruggiero, performed by the MSU Professors of Jazz with saxophonist Joseph Lulloff.
Three jazz orchestras perform swing and classics from jazz masters, inviting the audience to dance along in this lively concert.
Ryan Keberle, acclaimed jazz trombonist known for his technique, improvisation, and emotive playing, blends traditional jazz with contemporary influences.
Dan Wilson, acclaimed jazz guitarist known for soulful tone and intricate improvisation, blends jazz, blues, and gospel influences in captivating performances
John Clayton, Grammy-winning bassist, composer, and arranger, known for his collaborations with renowned artists and his leadership in the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra.
Musician and MSU alum Endea Owens has the right recipe for positivity.
MSU jazz professor, Detroit jazz icon elected to American Academy of Arts and Sciences.
MSU alum and donor Jenny Chung makes human rights central to her support of Jazz at MSU.
Renowned vocalist expands the excellence of award-winning program.
Renowned trombonist and educator returns to an instrument from his past.