University of Michigan Ann Arbor

University of Michigan Ann Arbor

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Jazz & Contemporary Improvisation

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Jazz & Contemporary Improvisation in Arts is offered by University of Michigan Ann Arbor.

This program combines strong foundations in both mainstream jazz and classical training as well as more eclectic approaches to contemporary improvised music.  A classical audition is required along with the jazz audition. This degree is not available for jazz guitar. 

Art forms evolve through the interplay of two contrasting, yet complementary forces--the ongoing quest for new possibilities, and the continual inquiry into past forms and practices. When this present-past interplay is centered at the heart of artistic training, students not only gain optimal mastery of skills and concepts within their field, they also experience their field as a vehicle for a broader, cross-disciplinary exploration.
The Department of Jazz & Contemporary Improvisation has harnessed these principles and emerged as a leading new educational voice. Combining the finest in traditional jazz training with systematic study of jazz's eclectic offshoots, along with innovative, interdisciplinary options which are at the cutting edge of pedagogical thought, the department offers students a variety of educational pathways few schools can match.

Curriculum

  • Twenty-four hours of private performance instruction in the student's principal instrument or the equivalent by proficiency examination
  • Three terms of University Band, Orchestra, or Choir
  • Three terms of Jazz Ensemble or Small Jazz Ensemble
  • Three terms of elected ensemble chosen from the Digital Music Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble, Small Jazz Ensemble, or Creative Arts Orchestra
  • Two terms of music theory including the study of the structure of primarily tonal music through ear-training and sight-singing, written work in construction and composition, and musical analysis
  • Two terms of musicology exploring European and American music history, as well as the sounds and concepts of many world music traditions
  • One elective in musicology or music theory
  • One year of piano or the equivalent by examination
  • Twelve hours of jazz studies including jazz improvisation and jazz composition
  • Music electives to total ninety hours (including eight to twelve hours in Performing Arts Technology or Composition)
  • Thirty hours of non-music courses including the University's two semester English writing requirement



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