Training
•Study Double Bass (Jazz) within a 120-credit BM available in either an accelerated three-year plan or a traditional four-year path with room for certificates or minors.
•Develop improvisation, jazz theory and history, composition and arranging while connecting jazz, commercial, classical and studio practice.
•Jazz bass study is placed within the Jazz & Commercial Music program (director Matthew Niess) and the Studio Big Band and Jazz Combos ensembles, building upright technique, walking bass lines and time-feel alongside the classical Bass Ensemble.
•Jazz bassists anchor rhythm sections in Studio Big Band, Jazz Combos and Little Big Band performances.
Performance & Productions
•Perform with guest artists and on recording projects in a world-class studio, with opportunities for clinics and touring in Shenandoah’s broader jazz community.
Professional Development
•Graduate with an ePortfolio containing a press kit, website, performance audio and video, original scores, transcriptions and writing samples, plus preparation for performing, studio work, teaching and entrepreneurship.
