Welcome to the UT Bass Studio!
The Bass Studio at the University of Tennessee offers a supportive and dynamic environment for developing well-rounded bassists. Students receive individualized instruction focused on technical mastery, musical expression, and professional preparation.
Academics
Bass students at UT can pursue a variety of undergraduate and graduate degree paths. Regardless of concentration, students benefit from personalized instruction and a well-rounded curriculum that emphasizes both classical and contemporary styles.
Undergraduate Programs
Students in the Bass Studio may pursue either a Bachelor of Music (BM) or a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Music, depending on their career goals and interests.
- The Bachelor of Music (BM) is a professional degree designed for students seeking advanced training in music performance, education, jazz, composition, or theory. Applied lessons are a central part of the degree for most concentrations (such as performance, education, and jazz) and may be optional in others (such as composition and theory).
- The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Music is a flexible, interdisciplinary degree that allows students to study music in context with other fields such as media, business, communications, and culture. Applied lesson requirements are dependent on the chosen track.
Students should review the degree requirements carefully to see how applied lessons fit into their intended program of study.
Graduate Programs
Graduate students may pursue a Master of Music in Music Education or Music Performance with bass as their primary area of study.
Graduate Artist Certificate
Designed for highly accomplished performers seeking to refine their artistry, the Graduate Artist Certificate offers advanced study as a stand-alone program.
Meet the Faculty
Meet Professor Jon Hamar
Professor Jon Hamar is a versatile artist whose ability to find a tasteful, unique voice in any musical situation has made him a staple in the music scene.
Jon earned a Bachelor of Music degree in Classical Double Bass Performance from Eastern Washington University under the tutelage of Russian bassist Roma Vayspapir. While in Spokane Hamar performed with the Spokane Symphony and the Bob Curnow Big Band. Hamar continued on to the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York where he graduated with a Master’s degree in Jazz and Contemporary Media in 2001.
Performance Opportunities
Bass students at UT perform in a wide range of ensembles that support both classical and jazz training. These include the Symphony Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, and various chamber groups. Students interested in jazz have additional opportunities through the UT Jazz Studies Program, including big bands and small combos.
This diversity of ensemble experience helps students build versatility, confidence, and strong collaborative skills – essential tools for today’s working musicians.
Interested in the UT Bass Studio?
Schedule a Music Major for a Day Experience or Building Tour!
Get a true sense of what it’s like to be a music major at UT! Sit in on classes, attend rehearsals, meet with Professor Hamar, and tour our beautiful facilities.
Learn How To Apply
Whether you’re applying as a first-time college student, transfer student, or graduate student, admission to the Natalie L. Haslam College of Music is a multi-step process that includes applying to the University of Tennessee and to our college. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Graduate Teaching Assistantships
The Natalie L. Haslam College of Music offers a number of graduate teaching assistantships each academic year.
Assistantships carry a waiver of the university tuition, pays for mandatory university fees, medical coverage, and carries a monthly stipend.