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Jazz Studies at Western Illinois University is a comprehensive degree option at the undergraduate level and as a minor as well.  Graduate options include both performance and composition.  Our students who graduate have been accepted into some of the most elite jazz programs in the country, doctoral programs, after finishing an MM in Jazz,  and some are teaching at the university level.  The program is highly visible and our students perform approximately 50 performances per semester.  The jazz area produces and participates in three festivals annually and brings many internationally renowned guest artists each year to work with our talented students.  Recent guests have included Jim McNeely, Duffy Jackson, Rob Parton, Jon Faddis, Bobby Shew, Roger Ingram, Chris Vadala, Rick Simerly, Gunnar Mossblad, Chris Collins, Bob Mintzer, John Clayton, Jeff Halsey, The Eddie Gomez Trio, The Jeff Hamilton Trio, The Harold Danko Trio, John Fedchock, Matt Wilson, Tom Garling, Johnny Trudell, Jack Grassel, Jill Jensen, and Brian Coyle.

 

Curriculum

UNDERGRADUATE

Our undergraduate BM curriculum is a diverse program of study that focuses in three areas.  School of Music Requirements, General Education Studies (Liberal Studies), and specific jazz courses.  In the jazz area we offer courses in Jazz Fundamentals, Jazz Improvisation, Jazz Arranging and Composition, Jazz Pedagogy, Jazz History, and Jazz Piano.  Students can also study Applied Jazz on their instrument, and can participate in both large and small jazz ensembles.  Students must also complete a 1/2 junior recital and full senior recital.

GRADUATE

The graduate program in Jazz Studies includes options in both performance and composition.  The program consists of a set of core courses in music research, theory, and history, applied study in the area of focus with one of our artist faculty, large and small ensemble experience, and other specialized course offerings.  The degree plan is highly adaptable and is tailored to student's long-term goals and needs.

APPLY

To apply, contact our School of Music Coordinator of Admissions, Yvonne Oliver, who will help with all of the application process, scholarship advice, and other logistical concerns regarding your audition.

Spotlight On
Jazz Festival Entry
Jazz Series 2013-14

September:
1 - JSO Colchester Labor Day Celebration
6 - JSO Balloon Rally
13 - Collage Concert
21 – Al Sears with guest artist Pharez Whitted

October:
2 - Hopper Jazztet 7:30pm COFAC
16 - All Jazz Showcase 7:30pm COFAC

November:
4- 6 JSO Tour with Bobby Shew
7 - JSO Tour Concert 7:30pm COFAC
19 - Jazz Band Concert 7:30pm COFAC

December:
7 - School of Music Auditions
7 - JSO American Legion Fundraiser

January:
11 - School of Music Auditions

February:
13 - 15 Jazz Festival with Guitarist Dave Stryker

March:
13-23 JSO Brazil Tour
29 - Chamber Jazz Festival with David Bixler Quintet

April:
16 - JSO Concert 7:30pm COFAC
29 - Jazz Band Concert 7:30pm COFAC

WIU Combo Macomb County Club every Thursday evening throughout the academic year

WIU Combo every Friday evening at Cafe Aroma

WIU Combos monthly Jam Session at Café Aroma first Tuesday of each month