The MM in Jazz Studies (instrumental and vocal) is a high-level, 32-credit, two-year program for students wishing to further develop their skill as a jazz performer and/or teach at the collegiate level. A bachelors degree in jazz studies or the equivalent is required.
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Elevate Your Jazz Journey: Only Here at CCNY
Debuted on the famed jazz radio station operated by Newark Public Radio.
Master classes conducted by the following artists: Maria Schneider, Dave Liebman, Jim McNeely, The Stockholm Jazz Orchestra, Dick Oatts, Norma Winstone and more.
Master class conducted each semester by the gifted teacher and renowned pianist Fred Hersch since 2001.
Students have had the opportunity to rehearse and perform on a concert with Ornette Coleman, Gil Evans and Freddie Hubbard at the Aaron Davis Hall.
Student Info
A high percentage of our students continue on as professional musicians, recording artists and music educators in the US and around the globe. Many of our students teach and perform regularly in the community while also being hired for their recording, arranging and composing skills.
Faculty Info
Our jazz faculty are active as performers, composers and recording artists and provide role-models for our students who plan to pursue careers in music and include Steve Wilson (saxophone), Professor, Program Director. Suzanne Pittson (vocals), Assistant Professor, Associate Director. Mike Holober (piano/arranging), Professor. Ray Gallon (piano), Lecturer.
Curricular Innovation
The MM in Jazz Studies offers courses in Harmony, History, Arranging/Composition, Ensemble, Pedagogy & Practicum, Private Instruction, and a final Recital. The candidate must be able to demonstrate (1) performance competence as an instrumentalist or vocalist on a high professional level; and (2) practical proficiency as a Jazz Arranger/Composer; and (3) proficiency as an Ensemble and Instrumental or Vocal Coach.
Admissions Facts
Total Credits: 32
GRE Required: No
Minimum Language Test Scores: 577 (TOEFL PBT), 90-91 (TOEFL IBT), 7 (IELTS), 61 (PTE) or 110 (Duolingo)
Concentrations: Jazz Performance
Degree Awarded: M.M.
A minimum of thirty-two credits in the field of Jazz Studies; including Harmony, History, Arranging/Composition, Ensemble, Practicum, Private Instruction, and a final Recital. The candidate must be able to demonstrate (1) performance competence as an instrumentalist or vocalist on a high professional level; and (2) practical proficiency as a Jazz Arranger/Composer; and (3) proficiency as an Ensemble and Instrumental or Vocal Coach. Where there are deficiencies in background such as to impede the ability of the student to profit from graduate work, the Graduate Committee will require additional courses to be taken without credit for the removal of such deficiencies. Audition is required.
Supporting Documents Required:
- Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
- 2 letters of recommendation
- Resume/CV
- Personal Statement
- Performance applicants will be required to appear for an audition. In some instances a recorded audition may be acceptable
- An Arranging/Composition portfolio may be submitted as an addendum to performance audition
Program Advisor: Prof. Professor Suzanne Pittson, jazzgrad@ccny.cuny.edu
For more information, please visit the Program Website.
Ready to take the next step?
Application Process Apply Today
Last Updated: 07/23/2024 11:54