Jazz Composition

Undergraduate Pre-screening: In addition to their instrumental pre-screening and audition requirements (requirements can be found here), applicants for Jazz Composition must submit 3-4 scores in PDF format within the “Portfolio” section of their application before December 1st. These scores should be a portfolio of compositions and arrangements that display writing for large and small jazz group formats (at least one arrangement of a jazz standard must be included). Recordings of these works should also submitted. Recordings from reading sessions and rehearsals are acceptable. If live performers are not available, recordings of computer sequences of works may be submitted. Candidates with a background in classical composition are encouraged to submit one or two examples of original non-jazz works.

Undergraduate Final Interview: After review of all required materials, approved applicants will interview with our professor of jazz composition. These interviews can be scheduled to occur either in-person or online remotely.

Please Note: There are no openings for DMA applicants in the Jazz Studies & Contemporary Media Department for Fall 2027. 

Graduate Pre-screening: Applicants for Jazz Composition must submit 3-4 scores in PDF format within the “Portfolio” section of their application before December 1st. These scores should be a portfolio of compositions and arrangements that display writing for large and small jazz group formats (at least one arrangement of a jazz standard must be included). Recordings of these works should also be submitted. Recordings from reading sessions and rehearsals are acceptable. If live performers are not available, recordings of computer sequences of works may be submitted. Candidates with a background in classical composition are encouraged to submit one or two examples of original non-jazz works.

• Optional: Graduate applicants may submit a recording of themselves performing on their primary instrument as part of their application materials. This recording is intended to provide additional context regarding the applicant’s musical experience and abilities.

Graduate Final Interview: After review of all required materials, approved applicants will interview with our professor of jazz composition. These interviews can be scheduled to occur either in-person or online remotely.