Jazz Studies





Jazz Studies at ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ
Welcome to the homepage of Jazz Studies at ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ. Directed by trombonist/composerÌýDr. Alex Heitlinger, the ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ Jazz Studies program supports a thriving creative community of student musicians and scholars majoring in music and a wide range of other fields. Our students regularly perform on and off campus, including rehearsals with our jazz ensembles,Ìýconcerts,Ìýcampus events, and jazz jam sessions at a local coffee house. They receive personalized mentorship and engage in coursework taught by our outstanding music faculty, with opportunities to collaborate on recording projects at our top-notch recording studios, and spearhead their own projects through the , a newly-established student organization. Students also have the opportunity to learn from, and perform alongside nationally-recognizedÌýguest artistsÌýwho visit campus each year for masterclasses and concerts
Students often choose to complete theÌý, which includes courses in jazz history, jazz harmony, improvisation, and private lessons. With a small number of credits and flexible scheduling, it is easy to pair the Jazz Studies minor withÌýany music degree or other course of study.
Mission Statement
ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµâ€™s Jazz Studies program empowers creative, versatile musicians through mentorship, performance, and real-world opportunities in a collaborative, forward-thinking community. Jazz teaches students to balance individuality and collaboration, building creativity, adaptability, and empathy through improvisation and group interplay while acknowledging the artistic contributions and musical traditions of great musicians past and present.