Jazz Studies @ The University of Toronto
Jazz Studies at the University of Toronto provides students with a comprehensive education in jazz, offering Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate degrees in jazz performance. There are approximately 70 students enrolled in the program, ranging in age from 17-40. The large faculty is comprised of some of the most prominent jazz musicians in Canada–every teacher is a working professional musician. With small class sizes and a high degree of personal interaction, students receive instruction that is focused and relevant to the music world of today.
THE PROGRAM
Your daily schedule includes private lessons, classes, rehearsals, clinics and performances. Music courses cover a wide range of stylistic approaches, and are designed to build a complete musician, one who is ready to tackle the challenges of the future. Arts and Science electives give you access to the vast University of Toronto pool of knowledge. Prepare to fill your head when you come to U of T.
Click here to view a short film about the U of T Jazz program.
Click here for an outline of the 2009-2010 school year.
LESSONS
Each student receives 24 hours of private instruction per year. Because the members of the faculty are all active performing musicians, lessons deal with not only the technical and musical aspects of playing your instrument, but also all facets of managing a musical career. Your teacher will become your mentor, a source of advice and inspiration.
CLASSES
Classes cover theory, jazz composition, jazz arranging and orchestration, improvisation and ear training. A series of masterclasses focuses on the business of being a musician and a wide array of courses outside the jazz area are available as electives. Click the links below for specific course information.
- UNDERGRAD COURSE DESCRIPTIONS (JAZZ)
- MASTERS COURSE DESCRIPTIONS (JAZZ)
- DMA GUIDELINES (JAZZ)
- JAZZ/IMPROVISING STRINGS PROGRAM (in development)
ENSEMBLES
Each student plays in at least two ensembles. Performance opportunities are numerous throughout the year. Ensembles are a major focus of the curriculum. Click the link below for more information.
THE STUDENTS
U of T Jazz students are hand-picked for their talent, and importantly, their desire to learn. The camaraderie is strong; students challenge each other to grow and innovate. Many of the most prominent young jazz musicians in Canada today are graduates of this program. At U of T, the jazz stars of tomorrow will become your friends and colleagues today. The relationships that are forged here will last a lifetime.
- CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON U OF T JAZZ STUDENTS
- IS U OF T JAZZ RIGHT FOR YOU?
- JAZZ AMBASSADORS (Got a question? Ask a student!)
THE FACULTY
The U of T Jazz faculty is comprised of many of the most prominent jazz musicians in Canada. Every one of our teachers is a working professional; many are well-known recording artists. Since students are taught by musicians who are actively involved in the business, the information and advice they receive is relevant and current.
With approx. 70 students and 25 teachers on the jazz faculty, individual attention is assured. There are 10-15 students in a typical class, and each student receives 24 hours of private instruction.
THE CAMPUS
U of T is located in the heart of downtown Toronto, one of the most vibrant and diverse cities in the world. You are steps from great shopping and restaurants and the subway stops at our door, giving you quick and easy access to everything that Toronto has to offer. While the Jazz Program is small and intimate, you are very much a part of the overall U of T community and in the center of the city action.
ADMISSION/AUDITION
In addition to meeting University of Toronto general requirements for admission, applicants for the jazz program are chosen via audition. Step one is the submission of a pre-screening DVD and supporting materials. Successful applicants will be invited to audition in person.
The deadline for receipt of pre-screen applications is January 15, 2010. Live auditions will take place in February and March. Click the links below for more information on the audition process.
Visit the Faculty of Music website for further information on degrees offered at the University of Toronto: