Programs of Study in Jazz

The Jazz Studies Program at Texas Tech University builds upon the mission of the College of Visual and Performing Arts and the School of Music by offering its students engaging jazz performance opportunities synchronized with in-depth study of the jazz tradition and practice. A thorough curriculum of jazz courses is designed to enhance performance ability and prepare future music educators to teach jazz in their communities. Course opportunities include jazz improvisation, jazz harmony, jazz history, applied private lessons in jazz improvisation and performance, and independent study classes on a variety of topics, such as jazz arranging, jazz pedagogy, and jazz literature. The Texas Tech Jazz Studies Program includes performance opportunities in the two full jazz big bands, several small jazz combos, and commercial and popular music ensembles.