UT Arlington also offers the Masters of Music in Jazz Composition. Students develop mastery in writing for various ensembles, both large and small. Flexibility within the degree allows students to focus in traditional big band, small group writing, studio orchestra, or more modern genre-blending compositional techniques. UT Arlingtons jazz and classical ensembles provide for opportunities to hear your work. Through an informal partnership with the American Jazz Composers Orchestra, one of Dallas Fort Worths premiere big bands, there is opportunity for professional performances of your work. As with the MM in Jazz Performance, students earning the MM in Jazz Composition are credentialed to teach at community colleges and some universities
*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please
August 2025
Arlington Campus
701 S. Nedderman Drive,
Arlington,
Texas,
76019, South, United States
*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please
January 2026
Arlington Campus
701 S. Nedderman Drive,
Arlington,
Texas,
76019, South, United States
A portfolio of works, to include at least two (2) but not more than four (4) scores and recordings representing the applicants best work. At least two of these should be in the jazz genre. Live recordings are preferred; MIDI recordings are discouraged but will be accepted as a last resort. At least one of the works should be scored for a large jazz ensemble (ten or more performers). Links to both scores and audio files housed online for the included pieces (via SoundCloud, DropBox, etc.) should be sent in an email to the graduate advisor. Please do not attach the files in the email.
A performance audition is also required on your primary jazz instrument. Applicants should prepare two jazz pieces in contrasting styles and tempos, with at least one jazz standard included. A pianist will be available to accompany you, or you may arrange for your own accompaniment (such as a play-along recording). Stereo equipment may be provided but only upon advance notice by the applicant.
Bachelors degree in music or its demonstrated equivalent (such as a music conservatory degree).
Three letters of recommendation are required, speaking to the students potential for success from references familiar with the students academic background.
A minimum 3.0 GPA in the last 60 hours of undergraduate work as calculated by the Graduate Admissions.
Submitted application to the Department of Music (see the departmental website for more information).
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.
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