Georgia State University Jazz Department

a State University Jazz Studies Program is dedicated to providing practical career preparation for today's professional musician. The Georgia State University Jazz Bands, Vocal Jazz Ensemble, and Combos are open to all University students regardless of class standing or area of study. Musicians of all levels are encouraged to participate and are placed in groups according to the level of their ability and experience. We attempt to instill an understanding of jazz, and with guidance, our program offers a unique opportunity for the musician to find new modes of self-expression. Although the top jazz ensembles are performance oriented, certain performance quality expectation will be made of all performing groups. It is through the medium of performance quality that students can learn to judge musical values and apply what they have learned. Teachers tend to teach as they are taught and demand of their students what was demanded of them. The program is designed to develop the special talents of the creative jazz artist as well as the skills required to prepare for a career as a professional musician. Course offerings in the jazz area include:

JAZZ IMPROVISATION (4 SEM)
JAZZ ARRANGING (2 SEM)
JAZZ THEORY
JAZZ PEDAGOGY
JAZZ ADMINISTRATION
MUSIC BUSINESS
JAZZ HISTORY AND ANALYSIS
APPLIED LESSONS
JAZZ PIANO CLASS
JAZZ COMBOS
VOCAL JAZZ
JAZZ BANDS


The Jazz Studies Program has been able to bring jazz artists of regional, na-tional and international stature to GSU to perform and give master classes/clinics. Some of the artists include such notable artists as Kenny Garrett, Marcus Roberts, Randy Brecker, David Sanchez, Slide Hampton, Nick Payton, Kenny Werner, Ran Blake, Chris Potter, Jerry Bergonzi, Tim Hagans, Dick Oatts, Bobby Shew, Clare Fischer, Joe Lovano, and many others. JAZZ ENSEMBLES

The Georgia State University Jazz Bands and Combos are open to all university students regardless of class standing or area of study. Musicians of all levels are encouraged to participate and are placed in groups according to their level of ability and experience. We attempt to instill an under¬standing and appreciation of jazz, and with guidance, our program offers an opportunity for the musician to explore new modes of self-expression. Performance standards are such that future musicians/educators /listeners establish attitudes towards music and performance that will be of critical importance in their musical and cultural endeavors. GSU jazz ensembles support the cultural, educational and career goals of a large number of stu¬dents while at the same time provide an enjoyable and aesthetic experience for all students as well as for the large audiences that are drawn to the pro¬grams. One of the purposes of the Jazz Studies Program at GSU is to provide an oppor-tunity for students to participate in quality jazz organizations such as large jazz bands and jazz combos. In addition to the performance groups, students may supplement his/her playing by participating in some of the academic jazz courses such as jazz improvisation, jazz arranging, jazz pedagogy, etc. Some classes have pre-requisites, so the student must be sure to check the bulletin or call the music office.