Welcome to the UT Jazz Studio!
The University of Tennessee’s Jazz Studies program has a long-standing tradition of excellence, innovation, and performance. Established in 1976 by jazz education pioneer Jerry Coker, the program has grown into a vibrant and nationally respected area of study known for its exceptional faculty, passionate students, and dynamic performance opportunities.
Whether you’re pursuing a future as a professional jazz musician, composer, or educator, the Studio Music & Jazz program offers rigorous training grounded in performance, theory, and creative exploration.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate
At the undergraduate level, students can pursue a Bachelor of Music (BM) with a concentration in Studio Music & Jazz, or a BM in Music Education with jazz designated as your home studio. Students pursuing the Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Music with a different concentration may also study jazz through applied lessons, jazz ensembles, and elective coursework.
Graduate
The Master of Music (MM) in Jazz is designed for advanced musicians seeking to deepen their artistry, research, and pedagogical skills in the jazz tradition.
Meet the Faculty
Performance Opportunities
Jazz students engage in a wide range of performance experiences, from big band concerts to small group sessions. The UT Jazz Big Band performs regularly on campus and throughout the region, exploring classic repertoire as well as contemporary works by leading composers. Smaller jazz ensembles allow students to workshop their skills, try out new material, and receive personalized feedback from ensemble directors – creating a deeply interactive and performance-centered learning environment.
Interested in the UT Jazz 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 the jazz professors, 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.