The jazz composition program lets you explore artistic and creative expression by studying melody, counterpoint, form, and orchestration. The curriculum aims to help you acquire a critical eye and ear, and develop the skill and vocabulary needed to work with fellow musicians. In the process, a personal style will evolve.
The culmination of the jazz composition major’s efforts is a written, performed, and recorded portfolio of original pieces for various jazz ensembles, including concert performances of at least four original works. This portfolio is physical evidence of the skill, discipline, and ability to communicate that the student has acquired.
This semester's deadlines for graduating students to submit their portfolio is located on the Portfolio Proficiency Guidelines page (login required).
Learn more about the jazz composition major or the related minor in the theory of jazz and popular song.
Programs
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Phil Farnsworth
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Associate Professor