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Jazz Studies
The Jazz Program at San José State University School of Music and Dance offers a Bachelor of Music degree in Jazz Studies. This degree provides dedicated students who are interested in pursuing a career in jazz performance or jazz composition an opportunity to learn from some of the most outstanding jazz educators and performers in California.
A low teacher-to-student ratio means students receive a large amount of personal time to interact with faculty. The numerous ensembles offered by the School of Music and Dance provide students with ample opportunity to grow as improvising musicians.
Because of its centralized location in downtown San José – the nation’s tenth largest city – jazz studies students have almost limitless opportunities to secure performances outside of the School in any of the Bay Area’s numerous night spots. San Francisco, Oakland, and Santa Cruz are easily accessible via public transportation, and are less than one hour away.
Bachelor of Music in Performance
Bachelor of Music in Music Education
Masters of Arts in Music
Minor in Music
- Dr. Aaron Lington, coordinator (saxophone)
Virginia Groce-Roberts (gospel choir)
Joe Hodge (drums)
Jeff Lewis (trumpet)
John Shifflett (bass)
Frank Sumares (piano)
Rick Vandivier (guitar)
Wayne Wallace (trombone) (Latin jazz)
Applicants are expected to exhibit a high degree of proficiency on their major instrument as well as a practical understanding of jazz improvisation concepts.
In their audition, each applicant should:
- Demonstrate ability to improvise and play with a rhythm section. The rhythm section may be live, or it may be a pre-recorded “Aebersold” rhythm section.
- Prepare three different selections (one must be a ballad) in different jazz styles and tempos.
- Demonstrate skill at sight-reading – faculty will provide sight-reading music at the audition.
- Demonstrate skill at executing major and minor scales and arpeggios.
Will I get private lessons from a jazz specialist?
Yes. After taking the four semesters of private instruction required of all music majors at SJSU and passing your junior qualifying examination, all Jazz Studies majors will receive weekly individual instruction from some of the Bay Area’s most qualified jazz musicians and educators.
Can I play in a small jazz combo?
Yes. Auditions for all ensembles in the School of Music are held every semester, giving every student equal opportunity to place into the ensemble of his/her choice.
Do the ensembles at SJSU every travel or have guest artists?
Yes. All ensembles at the SJSU School of Music travel or have guest artists as often as time and budget allows. Recent guest artists in the Jazz Studies Area include: Michael Spiro, John Worley, Wayne Bergeron, Tom Luer, Jamie Davis and Bobby Shew.
Will I receive special instruction in improvisation?
Yes. In addition to private instruction given to all junior and senior level Jazz Studies majors at SJSU, several courses in the Jazz Studies Department are specifically designed to improve one’s skill at improvising.
What should I prepare for an audition?
Prepare selections that will best display what you are capable of as an improvising musician. For specific selections and details on the audition process, please consult the SJSU School of Music Undergraduate Handbook.
What theory should I know?
While having a strong background in classical and jazz theory would certainly be helpful, it is not essential for acceptance as a music major. The School of Music offers a number of courses that address both classical and jazz theory.
