How to Apply to the Master of Music in Contemporary Performance (Global Jazz Concentration)

Statement of Purpose

This is your chance to tell us all about you, including your musical, academic, and professional journey, and why you would like to pursue a master’s degree at Berklee (400–500 words).

Résumé/Curriculum Vitae

Include your personal details, education background, and work experience. 

One Letter of Recommendation

Recommendation should come from someone you have worked or collaborated with who can speak in-depth about your musical strengths and skills.

Official Transcripts and Diploma

Submit official transcripts from your undergraduate degree. Please do not submit transcripts from high school. For applicants who attended a university outside the U.S. or Canada, refer to the International Applicants section for more information about transcripts. 

Portfolio

This is considered your "audition." It should include a table of contents and clearly labeled sections.

1. Performance Videos

You will be asked to submit video recordings of your performance of each of the following:

• A blues tune
• Wayne Shorter’s “Footprints” or John Coltrane’s “Impressions” or “Naima.” This tune should be in a 6/8 groove.
• An original composition
• A piece of your choice

At least two of these performances should be in an ensemble setting.

2. Thesis Ideas

Describe one to three potential projects that interest you as possible ideas for your culminating experience (thesis) project. These could be a musical performance idea, a recording project, an original album idea, or another initiative that you would like to pursue while at Berklee.

Each description should be one paragraph long, as specific as possible, and include how each project will foster your academic, artistic, musical, and professional growth.

3. Optional Materials

In addition to the above requirements, you also have the option to submit the following materials for consideration:

• A link to your personal website or Facebook artist page that conveys a sense of your artistry; and
• Your one-page artist biography, not written in the first-person voice (note that this is different from the statement of purpose and résumé).