2018-2019 Academic Catalog

Offered in: Chicago

It is the goal of the Jazz and Contemporary Music program to produce graduates who are improvisers and creators of the highest caliber, and who are ready to compete professionally or continue their studies at an advanced level.

The program's objectives are to:

• help each student realize her or his unique voice as a performer and as an arranger/composer;
• develop students' historical and practical understanding of the musical language of jazz idioms and the evolution of jazz styles;
• develop musicianship skills and performing ability so that students are able to conceive and execute musical ideas in a variety of performing situations;
• foster habits and ideals of social justice consistent with Roosevelt University's mission and the "democratic" aspects of jazz itself.

The jazz combo sequence is designed so that each group is devoted to a particular style emphasis. Assignments rotate each semester so that over the course of the degree, students will acquire a foundation in the most crucial styles of jazz and learn important repertory and composers associated with each, through the experience of creating stylistically-faithful improvisations.

Technical and repertory requirements for each semester of applied study are published in the Music Conservatory Handbook. These intensify as the student progresses through the program, culminating in the senior recital, which displays the student's creativity, musical and technical abilities, understanding of the historical context and significance of the music being presented, as well as preparation, rehearsal, and leadership skills.

Admission requirements

Please consult the CCPA Admission and Audition Information web page for the Jazz and Contemporary Music audition requirements.  

Requirements

C- is the minimum passing grade in VOI 271 JAZZ VOICE , VOI 272 JAZZ VOICE, and VOI 273 JAZZ VOICE. At the completion of the student's second year, he/she must receive a minimum grade of B- in VOI 274 JAZZ VOICE to be admitted to the upper division. The grade of B- is the minimum passing grade in upper division applied study, VOI 371 JAZZ VOICE through VOI 374 JAZZ VOICE. These minimum grades apply to both the lesson and the jury component of the courses.

A grade lower than C- in any JAZZ course will be considered a failing grade.

Required Courses

Your degree map is a general guide suggesting courses to complete each term on the academic pathway to your degree. It is based on the most current scheduling information from your academic program. Your program’s degree map is reviewed annually and updated as schedules change (although you retain the same course requirements as long as you are continuously enrolled in your degree program).

Always work closely with your academic advisor to understand curriculum requirements and scheduling, as each student’s academic plan can look slightly different.