Program Recognition
•The BFA in Jazz & Contemplative Studies combines jazz and improvised music with meditative practices and creative-development study.
•The degree requires at least 120 credits, with 75% of coursework in SMTD and 25% in the liberal arts.
Training
•The curriculum names private lessons, jazz studies, music theory, musicology, ensemble participation, and piano.
•Applicants enter with an extensive instrumental background and demonstrated improvisational skill.
Performance & Productions
•Ensemble work and applied jazz study remain central to the BFA sequence.
•The artistic review asks for blues, rhythm changes, contrasting jazz repertoire, improvisation, and a final faculty audition.
Professional Development
•Faculty expertise represented on the degree page includes contemplative practices, improvisation, jazz history, composition, saxophone, and double bass.
•Final review includes discussion of the applicant’s work and future goals.
Degree Flexibility
•Contemplative-practice coursework distinguishes this BFA from the professional BM jazz curriculum.
