Jazz Studies

Jazz students can be trained in virtually every aspect of jazz performance and pedagogy including: jazz improvisation, jazz history, jazz arranging/composition, small and large ensemble playing, rhythm section techniques, jazz pedagogy, private instrumental study, studio techniques and vocal jazz.

Admission is very competitive in all programs. You must apply to the Jacobs School of Music and arrange for a fall audition for spring semester admission. For more information concerning admission and the application, contact the Music Admissions Office, East Studio Building, JS 100, (812) 855-7998. You may also want to check out the Applications Procedures page.

To find out more about the majors offered in the music school, see the Degree Requirements page on the Jacob School of Music website.

Use the following guidelines to begin to think about your options for your first enrollment, in preparation for a fall audition.

Bloomington General Education Curriculum Common Ground courses (the Foundations requirements of English Composition and Mathematical Modeling are strongly encouraged in the first year.)

Ensemble: Ensembles are recommended, but not required for non-admitted students. Ensembles meet for one or two periods daily, typically between 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Most ensembles require an audition. Assignments will be posted during the first week of classes.

Performance Study: Select the MUS-Z 110, Non-Music Major Performance Elective, corresponding to your interest.

Music Theory: Music theory course selections should match your background. Take the Music Fundamentals Online (MFO) assessment.

Piano: MUS-P 110, Beginning Piano Class 1 (unless your primary instrument is piano). If you wish to investigate more advanced classes, take the secondary piano placement examination from the secondary piano coordinator, secpiano@indiana.edu.

PLAN B courses: Alternative academic plans in case you are not admitted to the School.