About the Program
The jazz studies program is a dynamic, intensive, professional training experience for the aspiring jazz performer.
The performance-driven curriculum strives to emphasize the practical, bringing “the street into the classroom.” With world-class performance and rehearsal facilities, the program enjoys an acclaimed reputation among today’s leading institutions.
Jazz majors are mentored by some of the leading jazz artists on the scene today, and performance opportunities abound on campus, locally in Westchester County and Connecticut, and in leading New York City venues.
Faculty and Alumni
Current faculty include such names as Pete Malinverni, Jon Faddis, Todd Coolman, Kenny Washington, Donald Vega, Ingrid Jensen, and David DeJesus.
Prominent alumni of the program include jazz vocalist Cyrille Aimée, Bruce Harris, Melissa Morgan.
Curriculum
Jazz students at Purchase benefit from a rigorous curriculum that includes courses in jazz repertoire, theory, history, and improvisation.
They also have the opportunity to work regularly with guest artists such as Gene Bertoncini, Peter Bernstein, and Bobby Previte, in a master class setting.
Performance Opportunities
All students in the Jazz Studies program play in a combo that is coached weekly, and are encouraged to audition for the elite Purchase Jazz and Purchase Latin Jazz Orchestras.
Performance opportunities range from “pop-up” concerts around campus, to concerts at the Performing Arts Center, and shows at prominent NYC venues such as the Blue Note and Birdland.
In addition, students regularly make trips down to the city to “sit in” with their teachers in professional situations.