Our Philosophy
Jazz Studies at The University of Toronto is a close-knit community of creative spirit located in the heart of Canada’s largest and most diverse urban centre. It combines the benefits of a small, focused music program offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in jazz with the opportunies inherent in attending a top-ranked and multi-faceted university.
At the core of the program is a philosophy of honoring the jazz tradition while incorporating current trends in modern jazz performance and composition. U of T Jazz students form lifelong bonds with like-minded peers while interacting closely with a faculty comprised of accomplished professional jazz musicians.
Important dates:
September 2-4 Orientation activities (Undergraduate only)
September 7 Labour Day – University closed
September 8 Classes begin
September 11 Mandatory Meeting for all Jazz Students
3:15pm in the Upper Jazz Studio
September 21 Last day to add F and Y section code courses
September 29 Faculty Council Meeting: 12:10pm
U of T Jazz Acknowledgement of
Black American Music
The foundation and tradition of jazz music was created by Black American musicians who endured the brutality of systemic racial discrimination and white supremacy. Despite the social barriers and persecution that these musicians faced, the result of their artistry was the creation of this most influential of American art forms, an innovative musical genre rooted in the blues, improvisation, and Afro American culture. U of T Jazz acknowledges the debt owed to these artists, recognizing that systemic racism continues, and commits to anti-racism in our curriculum and our community.
U of T Jazz Statement on
Anti-Racism, Diversity and Inclusivity
The University of Toronto is committed to equity, human rights and respect for diversity. All members of our community should strive to create a culture of mutual respect whereby everyone can express themselves, engage with each other, and respect one another’s differences. U of T does not condone discrimination or harassment against any persons and pledges to work towards equity, diversity and inclusion within our community.
Large Ensemble
Performances
Nov 11th, 2026 Jazz and Classical Hybrid Ensemble
Nov 18th, 2026 U of T Jazz 12tet & Vocal Jazz Ensemble
Nov 25th, 2026 U of T Jazz Orchestra
Jan 31st, 2027 UTNMF: DOG Ensemble and Jazz Faculty
Feb 6th, 2027 Gospel Choir: A Celebration of Black History Through Music
Feb 10th, 2027 Liner Notes: Black Canadian Women in Jazz
March 4th, 2027 Thursdays at Noon: Laureates - Small Jazz Ensembles
March 10th, 2027 Jazz Composers
March 24th, 2027 Vocal Jazz Ensemble
March 31st 2027 U of T Jazz Orchestra
Nov 18th, 2026 Lobby Concert: Gospel Choir
Photo by Lisa Sakulensky
Why should you choose to study Jazz at the University of Toronto?
The Students
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U of T Jazz students provide the most compelling reason to want to join the ranks. As a group they are highly talented and motivated. They challenge and encourage each other to pursue unique artistic identities.
The Faculty
The U of T Jazz faculty is fully comprised of working professional jazz musicians who bring a wealth of real-world experience to the table. In your time at U of T Jazz you'll have the opportunity to work with and learn from many of the top jazz musicians in Toronto and visiting guest artists.
The Location
The University of Toronto is located in the heart of a vibrant, culturally rich Canadian city. Shops and restaurants are at your doorstep and there are numerous places to hear jazz and other types of music performed live, almost every day of the year.
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The Program
U of T Jazz is a small program within a large faculty of music within a highly respected and top ranked university. You get the best of all worlds--a close knit community with your jazz peers, friendships and collaborations with music students in other disciplines, and access to a vast pool of knowledge and resources within the university at large.
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The Performances
U of T Jazz students perform with school ensembles numerous times throughout the year, on and off campus, including weekly performances by U of T Jazz ensembles at the world-renowned REX Jazz Bar. In addition, students regularly play gigs with their own groups outside of school. Any day of the week, you're likely to find U of T Jazz students performing somewhere in town. ​