Music Department
B.M. in Jazz Studies
Elmhurst’s bachelor of music degree in Jazz Studies provides great preparation for a career in jazz or commercial music. The program offers a wealth of instructional resources, including coursework in improvisation, jazz history, and theory; applied jazz lessons; and an abundance of performing experience, both in small combos and in large ensembles.
Jazz has long been a strength of Elmhurst’s Department of Music. With an extensive roster of performer/teachers, a wealth of Chicago-area cultural opportunities, and a nationally recognized jazz band and Jazz Festival, we have an established reputation in America’s signature art form. Our degree program builds on those strengths to prepare musicians for a variety of performance and composing careers in jazz and commercial music.
Music Courses
Music Theory: MUS 135, 136, 235, 236
Music History: MUS 343, 344
Music Business: MUS 330
Music Education: MUS 369
Jazz Studies Courses
MUS 120 Jazz Fundamentals I
MUS 121 Jazz Fundamentals II
MUS 218 The Making of Jazz
MUS 220 MIDI Theory and Applications
MUS 223 Jazz Keyboard Fundamentals
MUS 230 Jazz Improvisation I
MUS 231 Jazz Improvisation II
MUS 325 Rhythm Section Fundamentals
MUS 350 Jazz Arranging
Applied Music
Classical study for credit: four terms
Applied Jazz Study: each term enrolled, for credit
Band, Choir, or Orchestra: four terms
Large Jazz Ensemble: each term enrolled, up to six (Large ensemble defined as Jazz Band, Vocal Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Guitar Ensemble)
Jazz Combo: minimum of four terms
Senior Recital (Junior Recital optional)