SUNY Potsdam

Contact Person:
Bret Zvacek, Director
C306 Bishop, (315) 267-2423, zvacekbr@potsdam.edu

22 credit hours required.

The Jazz Studies minor is open to all students in music degree programs. In special circumstances, students outside The Crane School of Music may be accepted for study. An entrance examination demonstrating sufficient performance and theoretical skills must be passed by potential candidates outside of The Crane School of Music. The Jazz Studies minor will provide students with guided experiences in improvisation, performance, history, arranging and pedagogy. Upon completion of the Jazz Studies minor, a student’s educational and experiential backgrounds are enhanced as follows:

1. The student will possess a comprehensive understanding of a sophisticated contemporary art music form. The understanding gained will enhance the individual performance skills of the student, enhance the mastery and application of general music theory principles, and encourage personal growth, creativity and problem-solving skills.
2. Students will possess a background that will allow him/her to successfully teach jazz concepts and direct jazz ensembles in the public school setting.
3. Students will possess a background that provides an adequate foundation for successful graduate level jazz study, leading to potential employment as a performer, arranger, or teacher.

All courses are 3 credits unless noted. Credits are divided as follows: