Master of Music in Improvisation
Designed for students seeking the finest in traditional jazz training with the systematic study of jazz’s eclectic offshoots, along with innovative, interdisciplinary options which are at the cutting edge of pedagogical thought. Applicants should have a high level of skill in performance in both standard repertoire and improvisation styles in addition to well-developed aural skills. Applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree in music or its equivalent.
Curriculum
The Master of Music in Improvisation requires a minimum of 31 credits. Coursework to include:
- Private lessons
- Jazz & Contemporary Improvisation
- Ensemble participation
- Composition
- Conducting
- Musicology
- Music Theory
- and/or Music Education
- Dance and Related Arts or improvisation forms
Final Project:
Presentation of a final improvisation-based performance and recording project.
Silent Advisor
Degree requirements and term-by-term layout for current students.
Faculty
Andrew Bishop
Marion Hayden
Robert Hurst
Kris Johnson
Marcus Elliot Miller
Andy Milne
Brad Phillips
Daniel Pinilla
Edward W. Sarath
Martha Travers
Dennis Wilson
Nate Winn
Performance Opportunities
From large ensembles in celebrated concert halls to chamber groups in intimate recital spaces, performance opportunities across all disciplines abound, with nearly 900 student performances each academic year. Whether your focus is on early, classical, or contemporary music, whether your passion is for jazz, electronic, or world music, there is an ensemble—or in many cases, multiple ensembles—to suit your interests, including specific opportunities for percussion, piano, and organ & carillon. For students in theatre & drama, musical theatre, dance, and opera, opportunities abound in both professionally produced and student-run presentations.
Jazz Ensemble
Ellen Rowe, director
The University of Michigan Jazz Ensemble is the most competitive of the University’s jazz ensembles. Open by audition only, most seats are filled by majors within the Department of Jazz and Contemporary Improvisation. The ensemble meets twice a week for two hours, performs several times a semester on campus and off.
