The program has a strong tradition of high-caliber jazz performance and offers students the chance to study with outstanding jazz educators while developing their jazz and studio performance skills. Students in the program typically pursue careers as jazz studio musicians, composers, arrangers, conductors or soloists.

Every semester, there are eight to twelve combos of three to six players, coached by one of the members of our Jazz Faculty. Other large ensembles, like Nouveau Gumbo, are also active each semester. Singers are also welcome to be part of the jazz program and sing with one or more jazz combo.

The jazz area is committed to the highest standard of excellence across multiple disciplines, and offers performance opportunities to all voice students, regardless of their degree program.