Mar 28, 2024  
Undergraduate Catalog 2019-2020 
    
Undergraduate Catalog 2019-2020 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Jazz Studies (B.M.)


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Robert Larson, Associate Professor of Music
Armstrong Hall, Room 18-C, (540) 665-4557, rlarson@su.edu

The focus of the Jazz Studies curriculum at Shenandoah University is on the preparation of musicians as performers and arrangers in the broad field of contemporary music, which includes jazz, popular, commercial, classical and studio music. Students are also trained in areas of technology, as well as in jazz teaching techniques, in preparation for a career of evolving opportunities. The philosophy of the Shenandoah University Jazz Studies curriculum is grounded in the belief that 21st century artists will work in a variety of settings, where performing, composing, studio work, and teaching are important components of a successful musician’s overall career.

Program Outcomes

Students completing the Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies will be able to:

  • demonstrate the ability to perform, arrange, and compose in a variety of contemporary styles emphasizing jazz and other related styles;
  • demonstrate a knowledge of technology, including basic recording techniques and basic website development;
  • demonstrate a knowledge of jazz pedagogy and skill in teaching jazz; and
  • demonstrate a knowledge of music theory and music history.

Course and Credit Requirements


Jazz Applied Emphasis available in Bass (Acoustic and Electric), Guitar, Percussion, Piano, Saxophone, Trombone and Trumpet.

1st Year – Fall


Total for Jazz Piano Majors: 16 credits


Total for All Other Jazz Majors: 17.5 credits


1st Year – Spring


Total for Jazz Piano Majors: 14 credits


Total for All Other Jazz Majors: 15.5 credits


2nd Year – Fall


Total for Jazz Piano Majors: 15.5 credits


Total for All Other Jazz Majors: 17 credits


2nd Year – Spring


Total for Jazz Piano Majors: 16.5 credits


Total for All Other Jazz Majors: 18 credits


3rd Year – Fall


Total for Jazz Piano Majors: 15.5 credits


Total for Jazz Saxophone Majors: 15.5 credits


Total for All Other Jazz Majors: 14 credits


3rd Year – Spring


Total for Jazz Piano Majors: 16 credits


Total for Jazz Saxophone Majors: 16 credits


Total for All Other Jazz Majors: 16.5 credits


4th Year – Fall


Total: 13 credits


4th Year – Spring


Total for Jazz Piano Majors: 15 credits


Total for All Other Jazz Majors: 12 credits


Degree Total for Jazz Piano Majors: 121.5 credits


Degree Total for Jazz Saxophone Majors: 124.5 credits


Degree Total for All Other Jazz Majors: 123.5 credits


*Minimum grade of “C” required.

^Piano Proficiency Examination offered.

(ALT) Offered on alternating schedule; consult with advisor.

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