EIU Department of Music

Jazz Studies at EIU

For students interested in pursuing a degree in jazz, Jazz Studies is available as a concentration within the Bachelor of Music degree.  This concentration offers students a comprehensive study of jazz music from academic and performance perspectives.  It is well-known for its high quality instruction and successful graduates.  We offer a strong foundation in performance and jazz improvisation, history, theory, and arranging.

The purpose of the Jazz Studies Concentration:

• To promote jazz as a significant and indigenous American art form.
• To provide an environment for learning and developing the skills necessary to perform, compose, and teach in the professional world.
• To provide support for the jazz studies programs in the public schools throughout the region.

If you are interested in learning more about specific areas of study in jazz, please see the pages linked below. 

If you would like to be contacted about jazz studies at EIU, please fill out this Prospective Student Information Form.

• Jazz Studies Curriculum

• Jazz Ensembles

• Jazz Faculty

• Jazz Studies Handbook (pdf)

The Music Department also offers a Jazz Studies minor for students with some experience as jazz musicians.  For more information, please see this page.

The EIU Jazz Studies Program offers a number of events for high school musicians each year.  These include Honor Jazz Combo Day in November, the EIU Jazz Festival in February, and Eastern Music Camp in July.

We welcome high school students interested in attending EIU to visit.  We would be happy to set up a day for you to sit in on classes and ensemble rehearsals, meet current students, and have a lesson.  Contact Paul Johnston to schedule a visit.