The Bachelor of Music (B.M.) in Jazz and Improvisation is for musicians pursuing careers in jazz, studio recording, and performance in contemporary idioms (popular, world, experimental). The core classes in jazz and improvisation provide innovative learning opportunities covering jazz harmony, theory and improvisation, history and analysis, composition, arranging, and global improvisation. In addition, students choose elective classes that provide opportunities across disciplines to engage in creative ideation and problem-solving through sound production. Students who graduate from this program will have a competitive edge as they enter the professional world or apply to graduate programs in jazz and contemporary improvisation.
Students in this program will benefit from instruction and mentorship from some of the leading jazz and improvisation artists in the United States and beyond. UD faculty in this program include members of well-established, internationally esteemed jazz, contemporary, and Broadway ensembles that perform regionally in New York, Philadelphia, and across the United States and abroad. In addition, students collaborate with guest artists and clinicians. Most importantly, students benefit from an innovative, student-centered curriculum. In addition to numerous big-band and jazz chamber opportunities, students discover and create through hands-on application, for example, by learning jazz harmony at the keyboard, and by studying jazz theory and improvisation with instruments in hand.
AREAS OF STUDY
Core courses music theory, aural skills, class piano, and music history
Specialized training in jazz theory, jazz history and analysis, improvisation, global styles, composition, and arranging
Private weekly lessons in classical and jazz styles
Large jazz bands and small jazz combos
Independent research and public performance preparation
CAREER OPTIONS
Performing Artist
Higher Education
Freelance Musician
Recording Artist
Teaching (private studio or affiliated institute)
Arts Advocate and Reviewer
Artistic Director
Military Bands
Pit Orchestra or Session Musician
Church Musician
Composition and Arranging
Song Writing
GRADUATE PROGRAMS
Jazz Studies
Improvisation
New Music
Performance
Conducting
Teaching
Composition
Musicology
Music Theory
Music Entrepreneurship
*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please
February 2025
College of Arts and Sciences
University of Delaware,
4 Kent Way,
NEWARK,
Delaware,
19716, United States
Applicants to the University must be graduates of accredited secondary schools or have equivalent credentials. Specifically, for post-secondary, degree-seeking programs, we consider for admission students who
English proficiency test scores:
Direct Admission
Academic Transitions Pathway
Auditions for entry into Fall 2024 will be held on campus at the Amy E. DuPont Music Building on the following dates: January 24, 25, 26; Graduate only: Saturday, January 27
Applicants who cannot attend in-person have the option to submit a pre-recorded video audition using an audition request form by January 15. The form will be accessible by email following the completion of the application.
Undergraduate and graduate applications must submit all materials, including audition videos no later than January 15 for scholarship, or funding consideration.
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.
UD students study high-ranking, research-intensive programs supported by over 275 years of academic heritage, joining a distinguished alumni network
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