Department of Jazz & Contemporary Improvisation
The Department of Jazz & Contemporary Improvisation offers rigorous training in mainstream jazz as well as the systematic exploration of more open, eclectic forms of improvisation, all taught by a world-class faculty. The combination of traditional and innovative coursework helps support creative growth across a wide variety of students’ musical interests resulting in the development of skills that are key to success. This progressive approach to improvisation takes full advantage of the boundless course offerings available across the greater University. The department actively encourages a strong sense of community, which supports all students in their musical explorations. The department also offers coursework that explores the broader aspects of creative development through consciousness-based curricula.
Faculty
All jazz classes are taught by a resident, highly-esteemed faculty, who come from diverse backgrounds and represent a wide variety of styles and pedagogical practices within and beyond the jazz tradition. They support a wide range of musical styles within the jazz and improvised music field. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 5:1, the department provides the highest degree of mentoring and oversight possible, and fosters a close and supportive community. Students receive private lessons with their professors each week and, with permission, may study with additional faculty members as well.
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
Degrees
Undergraduate
Bachelor of Fine Arts
Bachelor of Music
Graduate
Master of Music
Doctor of Musical Arts
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.
Our Stories
Alumni Notes
Show Your Support
Any gift to SMTD helps launch the next generation of artists, scholars, educators, and entrepreneurs who challenge and inspire the world.
You can support the Department of Jazz & Contemporary Improvisation with a contribution to the Robert M. James Jazz Fund.
Explore our Campus
Meet the people who make up this dynamic community.
Program Costs, Financial Aid & Scholarships
Explore the many options available to make Michigan an affordable choice.