Student Handbook

1. Information Relevant to All Students

Important Notice: A good curriculum is organic and ever changing. We highly recommend that you consult your advisor and double-check your degree plan before using this information for anything but reference.

For the best up-to-date information, please refer to the academic advisors, mentor faculty, and Chair Rob Parton.

Dated: September 21, 2023


This handbook is designed to provide an understanding of policies and procedures in the Jazz Studies Program at the University of North Texas, and to serve as a guide to the requirements for earning undergraduate and graduate degrees in Jazz Studies.

5 months 4 weeks ago

1.01 Important Addresses

UNT College of Music

Address: 1155 Union Circle #311367 Denton, TX 76203-5017

Email: music.unt.edu

Phone: (940) 565-2791

 

UNT Division of Jazz Studies

Address: 1155 Union Circle #311367 Denton TX 76203-5017

Email: jazz.unt.edu

Phone: (940) 565-3743

 

UNT Web Site

UNT Catalogs

Student Information Portal

Division of Jazz Studies Canvas Page

6 months 1 week ago

1.02 Jazz Studies Degrees

1. Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies, emphasis: Instrumental Performance

2. Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies, emphasis: Jazz Arranging

3. Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies, emphasis: Vocal Performance

4. Master of Music in Jazz Studies, with tracks in Performance and Composition

5. DMA in Performance, local concentration in Jazz Studies, with emphases in Performance and Composition

Note: Jazz Studies is also a related area in the Master of Music degree, in both Composition and Performance; the Master of Music Education degree; and the Doctor of Musical Arts degree.

6 months 1 week ago

1.03 Courses in Jazz Studies

Please refer to the Schedule of Classes website, which contains links to the Undergraduate and Graduate catalogs for each year.

Current degrees offered:

  • BM in Jazz Studies
  • MM in Jazz Studies
  • DMA in Performance or Composition with a concentration in Jazz Studies

Undergraduate Catalog:

  1. Click the Undergraduate Catalog link.
  2. Looking at the menu on the left side, scroll down to "College of Music". Click the link.
  3. Browse the information; Scroll down to "Display programs for College of Music"
  4. Click the listing titled, "Jazz Studies (instrumental, arranging or vocal emphasis), BM"

Graduate Catalog:

  1. Click the Undergraduate Catalog link.
  2. Looking at the menu on the left side, scroll down to "College of Music". Click the link.
  3. Browse the information; Scroll down to "Display programs for College of Music"
  4. Click the listing titled, "Jazz Studies, MM" or "Performance, DMA"
6 months 1 week ago

1.04 Jazz Performing Ensembles

  • Lab Bands: 20-23 piece instrumental ensembles (1 through 7) - MULB 1808.500 / MULB 5174.500
  • Jazz Guitar Labs: L-5 and Super 400 - MULB 1817 / MULB 5174.517
  • Contemporary Music Lab (Formerly known as Zebras): Contemporary jazz repertory lab - MULB 1819.500 / MULB 5174.519
  • Jazz Singers + Vocal Ensembles: 4-20 member vocal/instrumental ensembles - MULB 1820.500 / MULB 5174.520
  • U-Tubes: Jazz trombone ensemble (does not fulfill a lab credit) - MULB 1821.502 / MULB 5174.530
  • Latin Jazz Lab: MULB 1821.500 / MULB 5174.520
  • Jazz Strings Lab: MULB 1824.001 / MULB 5174.529
  • Jazz Chamber Music Small Groups: 3-to-12-piece jazz combos - MUCM 3550.500 / MULB 5550.500
    • Special ensembles formed to address specific styles of jazz
  • Lab Jazz Repertory Ensemble: Historical focus - MULB 1818 / MULB 5174.518 
2 months 2 days ago

1.05 Jazz Studies faculty and staff

The most current information is found on the faculty and contact pages.

3 years 11 months ago

1.06 Office of Jazz Studies

The Office of Jazz Studies (Room 284) serves as a clearinghouse for general inquiries concerning the jazz program. To schedule an appointment to visit the office, email jazz@unt.edu.

6 months 1 week ago

1.07 Bulletin boards

Bulletin boards are located outside Lab West (room 282), the Office of Jazz Studies (room 284), and the Jazz Chamber Music Room (room 292), and on the doors of 282, 263, and 262. It is important to check the boards of your private lesson instructor and those teachers you have a class with. Do not tape posters to walls or doors. Use the bulletin boards or poster rails.

Make sure you are also connected to the Division of Jazz Studies Canvas page. Click the link to self-enroll.

6 months 1 week ago

1.08 Classroom and rehearsal facilities

Lab West (Room 282) - Large rehearsal hall/classroom with tiered seating for 100 people. Equipped for lab rehearsals and A/V instruction. Also used for ensemble concerts, faculty and student recitals, departmentals, and workshops. Space is outfitted for livestream, multi-camera video, and multi-track audio recording via UNT Recording Services. Food and drink are not allowed in Lab West at any time with the exception of water consumed by musicians who are playing.

 

Lab East (Room 263) - Rehearsal hall/classroom. Equipped for lab rehearsals and A/V instruction.

Room 262 - Large classroom/rehearsal hall with seating for 60 people. Equipped for A/V instruction.

Jazz Chamber Music Room (Room 292) - Small combo rehearsals, rhythm sectionals.

2 months 2 days ago

1.09 Use of Rehearsal Rooms by Students

The goal of these policies is to ensure that the rooms and equipment are kept in good order so that we can concentrate on making music.

Jazz Studies majors (and other students who have been given permission by the chair of Jazz Studies) are welcome to schedule rehearsal time in 262, 263, and 292 with at least 24 hours notice using the College of Music room reservation system. The rehearsal must be scheduled after regular classes and ensemble rehearsals have ended.

Here is a link to ScheduleFM, which is used to request room reservations: https://schedulefm.com/untcom/request/login.cfm.

After 5:00 pm and on weekends, Jazz Studies majors are welcome to use 262, 263, and 292 if the room is available. Students must present their UNT IDs to the Copy Room attendant(s) located diagonally from room 292. The monitor will verify Jazz Studies status using the procedure below, keep the ID, and let student into the room. After the room use, the student will return to the copy room, and will receive the ID back.

Lab West (282) can be used by students when it is not in use for classes, rehearsals, concerts, or other activities. Lab West (282) should remain locked. The only exception is for dress rehearsals scheduled as a part of a degree recital scheduling request.Food and drink are not permitted at any time in Lab West (282), except for musicians on the tile floor area, who may have water.

Drum sets and drum set hardware must be locked in the cabinet at the end of the rehearsal. This also applies to drum set use for scheduled classes and rehearsals under faculty supervision. The only time that the drum set and hardware can be left out is if the next drummer is there and ready to take responsibility for the equipment.

Guitar amps and bass amps must be locked in the cabinet at the end of the rehearsal.

Students may not have access to the amp closet in 262 and should not ask the monitors to open it. Only faculty and TFs who have been issued a key to it may open it.

When you are finished, the rooms must be returned to their default setup so they are ready for the next class use.
Please check these things:
1. Stereo off
2. 262: amp closet locked; 263 door to middle room locked; 292: sound system and lights off, door locked; Lab West: loading dock door and door to middle room locked
3. Drumset and drumset hardware locked up
4. Bass and guitar amp locked
5. Piano lid closed
6. Lab West: concert piano covered and off to the side, rehearsal piano in its correct position
7. Any drinks or food in 262, 263 or 292 properly disposed of (no drinks or food are allowed in Lab West except water for performers)
8. Video projector is off (can be used to conduct classes or with special permission) and screen is up
9. Chairs are where they should be for class setup (see photos below)
10. No instruments or equipment left in the room. This includes instruments you own and instruments that belong to UNT.
11. Lights off
12. Door locked

The photos below show how each room should be left when you are finished.

262

263

Lab West

6 months 6 days ago

1.10 Loading Ramp

Located behind Lab West and East Halls, the loading ramp is intended exclusively for loading and unloading heavy equipment.

Rules for use:

  1. Thirty minutes are allowed for normal unloading/loading of equipment.
  2. Use of the loading ramp is limited to four cars at any one time.
  3. Park in spaces outlined along the right side ONLY.
  4. Do not park in the red-lined space in front of the loading dock or above the yellow line, or block the sidewalk at the bottom. Parking by individuals not unloading instruments/gear for use in Lab West, Lab East, or the storage room is NOT ALLOWED and will be subject to a parking ticket. Non-observance of these rules causes unnecessary inconvenience for others, and may lead to a parking ticket and/or loss of ramp privileges.
2 years 2 weeks ago

1.12 Lab Band Practice Music

Sightreading material is widely available online in the form of solo transcriptions or etudes.

2 years 2 weeks ago

1.13 North Texas Jazz Recordings

Several of the jazz ensembles at UNT record annually or every few years: the One O'Clock Lab Band, the Jazz Singers, the Latin Jazz Lab, the Two O'Clock Lab Band, L-5 Jazz Guitar Ensemble, etc. Their CDs are available for purchase in the online store as well as in the Office of Jazz Studies (Room 284).

6 months 1 week ago

1.14 Musician's Union

Denton is located within the jurisdiction of local 72-147, American Federation of Musicians. Some students opt to join.
For information, see their website: www.musiciansdfw.org.

6 years 11 months ago

1.15 EagleConnect Email and the Canvas class

Students are expected to check their EagleConnect email address regularly, and to use it for all UNT-related emails. Important messages from UNT and from your professors will reach you this way. You are responsible for being aware of information sent to you at your UNT email address. To find out the format of your EagleConnect address, log in with your EUID to the UNT Account Management System (ams.unt.edu) and look for Student Email. We use the Canvas course entitled Division of Jazz Studies to circulate information to current Jazz Studies majors, faculty, and staff. Be sure you can see this in your Canvas dashboard. Visit this link to self-enroll: https://unt.instructure.com/enroll/TBL4LF. Email the Administrative Coordinator of Jazz Studies to be removed.

6 months 1 week ago

1.16 Jazz Lab Bands

6 years 11 months ago

1.16.1 Lab Band: MULB 1808.500/5174.500

Lab bands are 19-23-piece instrumental ensembles typically comprised of five trumpets, five trombones, five saxophones (aattb), five rhythm (piano, guitar, bass, drums, vocals), and in some case, 1 string player. All bands rehearse in Lab West (282), Lab East (263), or 258.

6 months 1 week ago

1.16.2 Eligibility and Credit

Any current UNT student is welcome to audition for Lab Band. Students who major in Jazz Studies are required to audition each long semester.

In all, an undergraduate Jazz Studies major (Instrumental Performance and Arranging) must earn a minimum of six credits in Lab Band (in addition to two credits in another lab). Four Lab Band credits must be earned during long (fall or spring) semesters. The remaining two may be earned from summer Lab Band.

Graduate students majoring in Jazz Studies must complete at least one long semester (fall or spring semester) in Lab Band. Starting in summer 2019, graduate students may not apply summer lab band credits to degree requirements. The two lab credits required by the master's and doctoral degrees must be earned in the fall or spring semester, and at least one of them must be in a lab band (for instrumentalists) or vocal lab (for vocalists).

Undergraduate and graduate students who are receiving a scholarship are required to participate in a lab.

5 years 1 week ago

1.16.3 Lab Ensemble Auditions

1. Auditions are held during registration each long semester. Sign up sheets are posted online or on the respective faculty member's door or bulletin board.
2. A student who registers late must make arrangements with appropriate faculty to schedule an audition.
3. Students may audition for lab band on more than one instrument.
4. Students who are assigned to more than one lab band (on different instruments) must enroll for a corresponding number of additional credits. Schedule an appointment to see the Administrative Coordinator in the Jazz Studies Office (MU284).
5. Lab Ensemble Auditions also act as Jazz Chamber Music auditions.
6. Jazz Chamber Music is only open to individuals who have received credit for Improv II; In some cases, additional students are admitted.

6 months 1 week ago

1.16.4 What to expect in lab band auditions

Visit the Registration & Auditions page to see updated audition information and requirements.

6 months 1 week ago

1.16.5 Lab Band Assignments

Visit the Registration & Auditions page to see updated audition information and requirements. Results of Lab Band auditions are posted on the Canvas page at the start of the week. Students may self-enroll in the Canvas course. The faculty may at any time make changes for musical or administrative reasons.

6 months 1 week ago

1.16.6 Lab Band Policies

Attendance: Substitutes may be sent a maximum of three times during a semester (six times for students who play four times a week) according to the following guidelines:

  1. The substitute is qualified (currently enrolled at North Texas, preferably playing in an adjacent band (one higher or lower).
  2. Twenty-four hours advance notice must be given, except in the case of a verifiable illness or emergency.
  3. The music folder must be at the rehearsal.
  4. All other absences will lower the student's semester grade. In addition, there are on- and off-campus performances scheduled for the Lab Bands throughout each semester. Attendance for these performances and related dress rehearsals is mandatory.

Punctuality: Be on time for all rehearsals and performances. This means set up, warmed up, seated and ready to play. Tardiness will lower your grade.

Preparation and Equipment: 

  1. For rehearsals:
    • Trumpets - Flugelhorn double, cup, harmon and plunger mutes
    • Trombones - Cup and plunger mutes
    • Saxophones - Soprano saxophone, flute and clarinet doubles. Lead Alto must bring piccolo when needed.Baritone Sax should have access to bass clarinet, bringing it when needed
    • Guitar/Bass - All necessary patch cords and effects
    • Drum set - cymbals, bass drum pedal, sticks, brushes and mallets
  2. For performances: Appropriate dress, as determined before each performance.
  3. For sectionals: All section leaders should hold frequent sectional rehearsals.
  4. Music Folders: Charts and folders are the responsibility of each student. Music must be properly cared for and brought to all rehearsals and performances. A fee of $1.00 per double page will be charged for the replacement of all lost parts. A fee of $50.00 for any lab band folder that is lost.

Syndicate performances: Students who are performing with Jazz Studies ensembles at the Syndicate in the University Union who are of legal drinking age may only have an alcoholic beverage after their ensemble has finished performing. No alcoholic beverages are to be taken onto the bandstand.

6 months 1 week ago

1.16.7 Lab Band participation and scholarships

Undergraduate and graduate students who are receiving a scholarship are required to participate in a lab.

6 years 11 months ago

1.17.1 Guitar Ensembles: MULB 1817/5174.517

The guitar ensembles are some of the many diverse performing groups at UNT. In these ensembles, guitarists have the unique opportunity to rehearse and perform in a section of five or more guitars. This helps the student focus on reading skills, ensemble blend, group articulations, comping and soloing. Currently, there are two ensembles with instrumentations of five guitars, bass and drums. The L-5 and the Super 400 perform arrangements by current and former students and faculty in a variety of jazz styles. They are directed by UNT Jazz Guitar faculty and graduate teaching fellows. Auditions: Visit the Registration & Auditions page for audition information including material, location, and sign-up sheets.

6 months 1 week ago

1.17.3 Commercial Music Lab: MULB 1819.500/5174.519

The Commercial Music Lab is a contemporary jazz repertory ensemble including: 4-5 horns, keyboardists, pianists, guitarists, a bassist, a drummer, a percussionist, and vocalist(s).

Auditions:
Interested players should indicate that on their primary jazz lab audition information sign-up form. Call-back auditions will be held during the first and second official class day. This audition will measure the student's understanding of the idiom.

6 months 1 week ago

1.17.4 Vocal Jazz Ensembles

There are currently four vocal jazz ensembles in the Jazz Division at UNT:

  • UNT Jazz Singers (MULB 1820.501/MULB 5174.523)
  • Avenue C (MULB 1820.502/MULB 5174.524)
  • Third Street (MULB 1820.503/MULB 5174.525)
  • West End (MULB 1820.504/MULB 5174.526)

All four ensembles are open to any registered UNT student (regardless of major), on the basis of live auditions held at the beginning of each semester. For more information, visit the Vocal Jazz Ensemble auditions page.

6 months 1 week ago

1.17.5 Latin Jazz Band (MULB 1821)

Latin Jazz Lab is directed by José Aponte and focuses on Latin jazz and related styles. Indicate your preference to be considered for this group on the Lab Band audition form.

6 years 11 months ago

1.17.6 U-Tubes

UNT's premiere Jazz trombone ensemble, directed by Nick Finzer and assisted a graduate teaching fellow. Rhythm section players may earn a lab credit for playing in U-Tubes.

2 years 1 month ago

1.17.7 Jazz Chamber Music (Small Groups): MUCM 3550.500/MUCM 5550.500

Jazz Chamber Music is an extension of Jazz Improvisation. Small performance groups are formed from among those students enrolled in the class. Jazz Chamber Music (JCM) groups provide an excellent opportunity to apply and further develop one’s improvisation and performance skills. Students involved in JCM groups meet twice weekly- one coached rehearsal, and one uncoached rehearsal.

Eligibility

Prerequisites:

  • Undergraduate students must have received credit for or passed 2370 (Improv II) with a grade of a C or higher.
  • Graduate students must be qualified for the Master of Music in Jazz Studies.

Combo Placement Procedure

JCM combo auditions happen concurrently with lab ensemble auditions (not including Commercial Music Lab). Students are placed in groups by faculty members in collaboration with the Coordinator of Jazz Chamber Music.

6 months 1 week ago

1.17.8 MUEN 2611.502 Rhythm Section Master Class

This class is not currently offered. It was designed to focus on specific topics that relate to the rhythm section in a small jazz group. Some of these are: group communication, individual instrument roles (piano and guitar comping techniques, bass lines, whether to "break it up", etc.), performance styles (ballads, medium tempo "tippin'" grooves, jazz waltz, up tempo burners, free playing, latin, etc.), and classic rhythm section analysis (early New Orleans, Basie, early bebop, post bop, Miles' ensembles of the '50s and '60s, Oscar Peterson, Wes Montgomery, etc.). There are four or five groups formed for the class (usually composed of piano, guitar, bass and drums) that rehearse and perform for critique and videotaping. Admission in the course is by consent of the instructors.

6 months 1 week ago

1.17.9 Jazz Strings Ensemble

Jazz Strings Ensemble meets twice per week and is directed by Prof. Scott Tixier. Rhythm section players may earn a lab credit for playing in Jazz Strings Ensemble.

String players (violin, viola, cello, and harp) can enroll directly in the following holding sections:

  • Undergraduates only: MULB 1824.001
  • Graduates only: MULB 5174.529

Rhythm section players (guitar, piano, bass, drum set) must be placed directly in the ensemble and should enroll in the lab band/ensemble holding sections:

  • Undergraduates only: MULB 1808.500
  • Graduates only: Enroll in MULB 5174.500
6 months 2 days ago

1.20 Student Clubs

UNT Jazz and Gender Equity Initiative

Mission: The mission of UNT Jazz and Gender Equity Initiative is to establish equality by empowering women and marginalized genders within the jazz community. Our organization will provide a space for open dialogue concerning gender issues as a jazz musician. Through discussions, masterclasses, guest artists, jam sessions, and more, the members of UNTJGEI will have the ability to effectively navigate the collegiate and professional jazz world while honoring the history of marginalized genders in jazz at North Texas. UNTJGEI will act as an agent for positive change in the community within the Division of Jazz Studies.

Vision

The vision for UNTJGEI is to raise awareness of the lack of representation of disenfranchised groups. We will do this by:

  • Organizing events that bring women and non-binary artists to UNT.
  • Holding meetings that include discussions, listening sessions, guest artist presentations, and jam sessions.
  • Fundraising efforts directed at giving back to underrepresented genders and communities.
  • Instilling mentorship and community building within the UNT College of Music.
  • Highlighting past and present-day women and non-binary artists.
6 months 1 week ago

1.21 Professional Absences

The following policy is from the College of Music Faculty Handbook Section 8.10.

Absences for Professional Reasons, Individual Students

NOTE: This policy statement is not intended to apply to absences from large ensembles for professional reasons.

These instances are governed by policies set forth in the course syllabus.

  1. A student who must be absent from a class for verified professional reasons is entitled to be excused from any punitive action (such as penalization of grade) for non-attendance;
  2. The student may be held responsible for any material presented in any class for which there is a professional excuse;
  3. Any assignments due during the time of absence must be turned in either in advance or at a time after return designated by the instructor;
  4. If a test is scheduled during an excused absence, the student is entitled to a make-up examination to be administered at the convenience of the instructor;
  5. The student must notify the instructor of an anticipated absence in advance of class and establish any make-up examination or assignment dates, if appropriate.

Verification of the absence shall consist of a letter of explanation signed and dated by the sponsoring professor and the division chair, a copy of which shall be given the instructor.

6 months 1 week ago

2. Undergraduate Degree Programs

The Jazz Studies curriculum leads to the Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies, with areas of specialization in Instrumental Performance, Jazz Arranging, and Vocal Performance. Degree plans for each of these areas (outlined by semester) are found here under "Semester-by-Semester Plans": https://music.unt.edu/advising. Each jazz major is individually responsible for following the degree plan written for his/her area of specialization, and seeking advice regularly from the College of Music undergraduate advising office.

PROGRAM GPA: For the course to count towards the degree, a minimum grade of B is required for all jazz studies courses in the major.

This policy is supported by the resolution passed by the University Undergraduate Curriculum Committee on 6 May 2015, which states that programs may require "a minimum grade per course for a major and its supporting field."

Students are responsible for the prerequisites of each course for which they enroll, and for being prepared for placement, continuation and proficiency examinations, as listed in this handbook, and in the Undergraduate Catalog.

6 months 1 week ago

2.01 Entrance Requirements

  1. Follow the steps outlined on the College of Music admissions page and on the Jazz Studies website. Note that admission to UNT, to the College of Music, and to the Jazz Studies program are separate and required steps.
  2. If transferring from another university, file a degree plan during the first semester at UNT (see the College of Music Advising Office).
6 months 1 week ago

2.02 Scholarships

The Jazz Studies program awards performance and arranging scholarships on a competitive basis. These awards also reduce the out-of-state tuition to in-state rates. Applications with references must be sent in and an audition must be performed in one of three ways:

  1. In person - a live audition may be performed on one of the College of Music audition dates that are published each year.
  2. By appointment - a live audition may be performed during a visit to campus at a time other than the published audition dates (by contacting the Instructor).
  3. 3. By recording. See the Jazz Studies website for the specific requirements for each instrument.
  4. For complete information on scholarships and appropriate application forms visit the College of Music Website and the Jazz website.

Note: Scholarship renewals depend upon a Grade Point Average of 3.0 Minimum (Undergrad), 3.5 minimum (Graduate) in music courses for the academic year and acceptable progress on your instrument.

6 months 1 week ago

2.03 Applied Concentration Requirements

Jazz Studies majors whose specialization is Instrumental Performance must qualify for Lab Band on one of the following instruments: Trumpet, Trombone, Saxophone, Violin, Viola, Cello, Piano, Bass, Guitar, Drum set, Percussion, or Vibraphone. Jazz Studies majors whose specialization is Vocal Performance must qualify as a vocalist in one of the vocal jazz ensembles. (See Vocal Jazz at North Texas).

Jazz Studies majors must also declare one of the instruments listed above as their area of applied concentration. In these private lesson for Trumpet, Trombone, Saxophone, and Bass, the primary focus begins with classical study. Two semester hours of applied credit per semester is awarded for successful study on the concentration instrument. One hour of credit for applied study identifies a secondary instrument. Generally, the Upper Division Exam (UDE) must be passed covering requirements through the second year of study. This exam may be attempted only after eight credits of study have been completed.

6 months 1 week ago

2.04 Lab Requirements

All Jazz Studies majors are expected to audition for a jazz lab every long semester they are enrolled. All students who perform in a jazz lab must be appropriately enrolled in that lab. See Jazz Laboratories, section 10.

Undergraduate students who are receiving a scholarship are required to participate in a lab.

6 years 11 months ago

2.08 Policy on enrolling in MUJS 2360 before completing MUJS 1132

Undergraduate students may enroll in MUJS 2360 before completing MUJS 1132 if they:

  1. Have completed MUJS 1131 with an A
  2. Have completed all other coursework with a B or better
  3. Have the approval instructor of MUJS 2360
  4. Have the approval of the major professor(s) of their instrument
  5. Have the approval of the Division of Jazz Studies chair
6 months 2 days ago

2.10 Undergraduate Recital Guidelines

The most current recital guidelines are linked here in this PDF. Please note that the MUJS 4720 capstone recital requires program notes, which must be reviewed by the student's major professor(s) before they are distributed. Recital programs are also required.

The College of Music provides digital programs. Your program information is due three weeks before the date of your recital. All programs (junior, senior, MM, DMA, GAC, guest artist, faculty, ensemble) are due to the College of Music Program Office (MU241) 3 weeks prior to the event and should be submitted to Linda.Strube@unt.edu. The program request PDF form is available here: https://music.unt.edu/sites/default/files/recitalProgramInformationSheet.pdf. The form contains information designed to help you gather the required information for the program. You are responsible for researching dates of composers and compositions and proofreading the information for accuracy. Please include complete information on the performers and instruments.

Information required: title of piece, year of composition, composer name, composer birth and/or death years (for each piece/composer) and, if applicable, movements to be performed. Completed digital programs can be retrieved at https://music.unt.edu/scheduling/program-archives.

Current, former, retired, and adjunct faculty members may not participate in student degree recitals. Guest artists are not permitted in student degree recitals.

5 months 4 weeks ago

2.11 Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies (Instrumental Performance)

See the "Semester-by-Semester Plans" section of https://music.unt.edu/advising for a current Jazz Instrumental Performance degree plan.

6 months 1 week ago

2.11.2 Senior Recital (Instrumental Performance)

  1. A senior recital is required of all Jazz Studies degree candidates. Two or more candidates must share a recital.
  2. Each candidate must first have passed the Final Improvisation Proficiency Exam.
  3. Senior recitals may be given at any time during a long semester; however, the date must be scheduled before the end of the seventh week of classes.
  4. The Jazz Recital Guidelines, available in this student handbook, contain a complete checklist of procedures, requirements and deadlines.
6 months 1 week ago

2.12 Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies (Arranging)

To continue past the second semester of (MUJS 3620) into the third semester (MUJS 4610), the student must first earn a semester grade of A in MUJS 3620. Recommendations from the student’s assigned teaching fellow instructor are also encouraged. The teaching fellow instructor will notify the Professor of Jazz Composition and Arranging of the student’s interest to study the advanced semesters of Jazz Composition and Arranging (MUJS 4610/4620). If the student has not met these prerequisites, a placement exam must be taken to demonstrate competency and ability to meet the expectations in the advanced courses. The student should notify the Professor of Jazz Composition and Arranging, who will administer the exam.

6 months 2 days ago

2.12.1 Requirements for Continuation

To continue past the second semester of (MUJS 3620) into the third semester (MUJS 4610), the student's semester grade from MUJS 3620 must be A. Otherwise, students with a lower grade (B only) must take the Arranging Continuation Exam (ACE) which is administered by the Professor of Jazz Composition and Arranging. They must also demonstrate adequate keyboard proficiency by performing "Stella By Starlight" on piano in a ballad style. The performance must include a full texture of sound (melody, bass, contrapuntal harmonic support). In lieu of the piano performance, a student can provide a good MIDI demo of a personal composition or arrangement. It must include a full representation of the rhythm section instruments that normally support the writing for horns. String players and vocalists may submit their creative projects for ensembles related to their performance context. The results of the exam and audition will determine whether the student is qualified to progress to the Advanced Arranging courses.

6 months 2 days ago

2.12.5 Senior Recital (Arranging Specialization)

Please be aware that new requirements exist for the recital for those students who are taking it as a Capstone course. Please consult your academic advisor.

1. A senior recital is required of all Jazz Studies degree candidates. Two or more candidates must share a recital.
2. The candidate must have completed all degree requirements in Music Theory, Counterpoint and Composition. The candidate must also be enrolled in MUJS 4620 (4th semester Arranging) or have passed this course with a grade of B or better.
3. The Senior Arranging Recital consists of public performance of three charts.
4. Senior arranging recitals may be given only during long semesters, and must take place at the University of North Texas. The recital must be scheduled before the end of the third week of the semester in which it is to occur.
5. A complete checklist of procedures, requirements and deadlines is contained in the Undergraduate Recital Guidlines in the online jazz studies student handbook.

1 year 1 month ago

2.12.6 Requirements for switching to arranging emphasis

Students that have established a prowess for jazz writing may be allowed to change their status to become a jazz major with an emphasis in arranging. This decision must be determined no later than the completion of the sophomore level of study. Before doing so, the student should realize that this track requires significantly more time than the typical performance major since most of the requirements for instrumental performance still apply (including the successful completion of the jazz improvisation exams.

A formal written application must be filled out and approved via signatures from the student’s applied performance professor, the Professor of Jazz Composition and Arranging, and the Chair of the Division of Jazz Studies.

In preparation for this transition, the student must present a portfolio of compositions and arrangements that show substantial potential beyond the limited writing production of a typical jazz performance major. It should include one complete arrangement for big band. The portfolio will then be evaluated by the Professor of Jazz Composition and Arranging. The student must also demonstrate a reasonable facility at the keyboard by performing Stella by Starlight from memory (contact the Professor of Jazz Composition and Arranging for an appointment).

Upon acceptance, the student must take the following advanced courses:

  • Advanced Jazz Arranging (MUJS 4610 and 4620)
  • Counterpoint (MUTH 3410)
  • Classical Composition (MUCP 3080)
  • Conducting (MUAG 3800)

The student will also change his/her applied area of instruction from performance to arranging; a minimum of three semesters of private study is required in order to present a satisfactory senior recital in this area. The first two semesters are dedicated to the bulk of the writing; at least two pieces (one large, one small) are to be written in each semester. The final semester is dedicated to one more piece and preparation for the recital.

The senior recital will consist of the following minimum:

  • Two pieces for big band (contrasting moods or styles)
  • Three pieces for various chamber groups – a 3-horn arr, a 4-horn arr, a 5-horn arr.

The five pieces must total at least 25 minutes of performed music and improvisation cannot constitute more than 40% of the written music. There must be a comprehensive representation of styles: swing, be-bop, modal, ballad, Latin, Brazilian, original (modern day).

6 months 2 days ago

2.13 Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies (Vocal Performance)

See the "Semester-by-Semester Plans" section of https://music.unt.edu/advising for a current Jazz Voice degree plan. This link provides detailed description of the vocal jazz program.

6 months 1 week ago

2.13.1 Placement and Proficiency Examinations

Vocal Jazz Placement Examination
Singers are accepted into the vocal jazz degree program at one of two levels, on the basis of a live audition. This Placement Exam may be concurrent to the UNT Jazz Singers audition, or specially scheduled by appointment with appropriate faculty. See Vocal Jazz Auditions online through the jazz website.

Provisional Status - Qualify by audition to participate in UNT Jazz Singers - meaning:
1) Demonstrate the ability to handle intervals and in tune
2) Show reasonable control of head and chest voice, and breath support
3) Sight read music at the level of an alto part from a typical Protestant hymn; sight read rhythms at the level of Sammy Nestico big band brass parts.
4) Sing a solo from the standard repertoire with reasonable musicality.

Full Status - Demonstrate growth past the provisional level. On a forum performance:
1. Sing solos with the sound, control, and breath support idiomatic of vocal jazz
2. Improvise musically and sing the bass notes of the changes ... and following the Forum performance:
3. Play chord changes on the piano, showing functional keyboard skills
4. Give evidence of having memorized repertoire consistent with the length of time spent thus far in vocal jazz classes, ensembles.

Conversion: Provisional status must convert to full status within a reasonable time. Exceptions may be counseled into a different degree program.
The Improvisation Continuation Exam applies to all jazz majors. Vocal jazz majors must pass the ICE to gain admittance into MUJS 4120, Vocal Jazz Styles.

Vocal jazz majors must pass the Vocal Jazz Proficiency Exam (VJPE) before they will be allowed to present a senior recital. The exam is scheduled during finals week, each long semester, and is adjudicated by appropriate members of the jazz faculty. The singer must demonstrate competency as a soloist in the jazz idiom (including improvisation) on material drawn from the UNT Vocal Jazz Repertoire List, which is distributed in MUJS 3120 Vocal Jazz Techniques.
It is recommended that students take the VJPE at the conclusion of MUJS 4120 (Vocal Jazz Styles). A student may attempt the VJPE one time without being enrolled in MUJS 4120.
Students are expected to perform their senior recital in the semester following successful completion of the VJPE. If the recital is not completed within one year the student will be required to retake the VJPE .

6 years 11 months ago

2.13.2 Senior Recital (Vocal Performance)

Please be aware that new requirements exist for the recital for those students who are taking it as a Capstone course. Please consult your academic advisor.

1. A senior recital is required of all Jazz Studies degree candidates. Two or more candidates must share a recital.
2. Each candidate must first have passed the College of Music Applied Concentration Proficiency Examination.
3. Each candidate must be actively enrolled in, or have passed Vocal Jazz Styles (MUJS 4120) with a minimum grade of B.
4. Senior recitals may be given at any time during a long semester; however, the date must be scheduled before the end of the seventh week of classes.
The Undergraduate recital guidelines, available via the online student handbook, contains a complete checklist of procedures, requirements and deadlines.

6 years 11 months ago

2.13.3 Degree Plan (Vocal Performance)

A sample degree plan can be found on the College of Music Advising website.

6 years 11 months ago

2.13.4 Upper Divisions Examination for Vocal Jazz

Jazz Studies Major – (Voice) Upper Division Examination (UDE)
(effective Spring 2013)

All undergraduate Jazz Studies (Voice) majors and concentrations must pass the Upper Divisional Exam (UDE) before advancing to the 3000 level of voice study. The UDE assessment takes place during finals week no later than the fourth semester of study. Transfer students may be assessed in an earlier semester at the discretion of their teachers, but not earlier than the fourth semester of study overall and not later than their fourth semester at UNT.

I. The purpose of the UDE is to determine whether the student is progressing through their curriculum with sufficient promise for continued progress such that they will be prepared to perform a recital and earn their Bachelor's degree after 4 additional semesters of study. This is determined through examining the evidence of the student's total progress as they've passed through the following benchmarks:
1. Private study at the 1500 level
2. Vocal Jazz Techniques class (minimum of 1 semester)
3. Jazz Improvisation class (two semesters, including one attempt at the ICE at the conclusion of Improv II)

II. The focus of the UDE will be to determine a student's grasp of the most basic concepts of jazz and an ability to express themselves artistically in those styles. As such, we will assess two specific song performances, in addition to the other elements listed above:
1. A medium swing standard tune, sung between mm. 120 – 140 bpm. Within that performance, we expect to hear a demonstration of the following: good swing time feel, lyric delivery with expressiveness and phrasing, accurate intonation and ability to sing the melody accurately, as well as creativity when sections of the melody are repeated, good tone and command of vocal technique, and wordless vocal improvisation.
2. A standard jazz ballad, sung between 50 – 60 bpm. We expect to hear a demonstration of the elements listed above, minus the swing feel and wordless vocal improvisation, and adding an appropriate command of ballad phrasing.

III. Those songs can be performed during finals week in any of four different settings:
1. The ICE (medium swing selection)
2. The Vocal Jazz Techniques class jury: 2 song selections, 1 of your choosing (medium swing or ballad selection, or both)
3. The private lesson jury, if it includes something other than a transcription, since the UDE selections CANNOT be transcribed, but must be the intellectual property of the student (medium swing or ballad selection)
4. An additional song performed as part of the lesson jury, IF the two song requirements have not been met as part of one of the first 3 components

IV. It will be the student's responsibility to consult with their academic advisor in order to know that they need to be assessed for the UDE and get a form from their private instructor prior to finals week to fill out completely and bring to the ICE (if applicable) or the jury, whichever comes first. The student must give the filled-out form to Professor Barnes, who will then retain the form until the process is complete.

V. After the ICE, Techniques jury and lesson jury are completed, the student will either be notified of their UDE assessment with two possible results:
1. "Pass", signifying that the student is eligible to register for 3500 level lessons at the start of the following semester, and will study with one of the adjunct or full-time professors.
2. "Fail", meaning that the student will be asked to meet for a conference with Professors Barnes and Eckert to discuss their options and the possibility of not continuing their progress forward in the Jazz Studies-Voice degree curriculum

VI. Students who do not pass the UDE assessment on the first attempt MAY be permitted to remain in the 1500 level of lessons for an additional semester, then be assessed again, at the discretion of Professors Barnes and Eckert. Students who do not pass the UDE assessment on second attempt will be advised out of the Jazz Studies major.

6 years 11 months ago

3. Graduate Degree Programs

6 years 11 months ago

3.01 Entrance Requirements

1. Apply to and be accepted by the University through Toulouse Graduate School.
2. Apply to the College of Music (http://music.unt.edu/prospective-students)
3. Be admitted by the Division of Jazz Studies, which is part of the College of Music admission process.
4. Complete leveling courses as needed to remove undergraduate deficiencies.
5. Validate course work and skills by examination and/or performance.

Note: Jazz Studies is also a related area in the Master of Music degree (both with a major in Composition and in Performance), and an elective block in the Master of Music Education degree.

6 months 2 days ago

3.02 Graduate Recital Guidelines

Prerequisites and Eligibility
A degree recital is required of all candidates for the Master of Music in Jazz Studies degree. Once you have met the prerequisites, you may enroll in MUJS 5535 with the permission of the professor who supervises your track. If you are in the performance track, this is your applied lesson professor. For the composition track, this is the Professor of Jazz Composition and Arranging

  • In the composition track, students must pass the Graduate Arranging Proficiency Exam (a portfolio review supervised by the Professor of Jazz Composition and Arranging. MUJS 5535 consists of private lessons leading up to your recital of compositions and arrangements.
  • In the performance track, MUJS 5535 consists of private lessons leading up to your performance recital.

Since MUJS 5535 is a class, the primary policy document for it is your syllabus. This document should be considered a supplement to the syllabus.

Procedures
Once a candidate has met the prerequisites he or she may begin planning a recital.
The following steps are required:

  1. Register for MUJS 5535.
  2. Work with your professor to decide the content of the recital.
  3. Select a recital committee (see below).
  4. Schedule the recital in consultation with your major professor(s) and recital committee. Coordinate with your major professor(s) first, then the other two faculty members on your recital committee. This is not the same as your comprehensive oral exam panel; they are two separate entities. See section 3.19, Master's Comprehensive Exam, for more details regarding the comprehensive oral exam panel.
  5. Book your recital. Jazz degree recitals may only be presented Monday through Thursday at 8 p.m. in Lab West. Recitals cannot conflict with other Jazz Studies performances or other College of Music performances of a similar nature. Instructions to book a recital can be found at this link to ScheduleFM Scheduling and Room Reservation instructions.

Recital Committee
Master's students will arrange to have three faculty members on their recital committee. This will include their major professor(s) as well as two additional faculty members. It is important that they work with their major professor(s) first to agree on possible dates. Next, they should contact other faculty members who will agree to serve on their committee. This is committee is not the same as the comprehensive oral exam panel; they are two separate entities. See section 3.19, Master's Comprehensive Exam, for more details regarding this.

Program and Recital Performance
The responsibility to ensure that the recital is carried out within the guidelines of the Jazz Studies Division is shared by the student and their major professor(s). The recital content will be chosen in consultation with their major professor(s). For performance recitals, the program should reflect a variety of current and historical styles. For composition, consult with your major professor(s) about content. The notes must be reviewed by the professor before they are distributed.

The recital should last between 45 and 60 minutes. The performance area should be neat and attractive. Lab West must be left set up and ready for lab band rehearsal. You are encouraged to ask friends to help with setup and striking, which includes getting the room ready for lab band rehearsal.

Instrument
You must perform on your principal instrument, which is the one you use in your applied lessons and improvisation classes. If you wish to perform on an additional instrument, you must get written permission in advance from the Jazz Studies faculty member who teaches that instrument. The program selections on which you wish to perform on an additional instrument must be clearly indicated on your proposed program. Your recital advisor must approve of the performance on an additional instrument, and a faculty member who teaches that instrument must approve and sign the recital form to indicate the approval.

Memorization requirement
Candidates must perform from memory. Student performers other than the degree candidate may read from parts.

Faculty performance on recitals
Members of the faculty (current or former), including professors, lecturers, and adjunct instructors, may not perform on degree recitals.

Recording and sound reinforcement
A recording of the recital must be made, either by the UNT College of Music Recording Services or a service contracted by the students. The recording should be available for review by the committee on request. If Jazz Studies division sound reinforcement equipment is used, it must be used under the supervision of the major professor(s).

Programs
Recital programs are required. The College of Music provides digital programs. Your program information is due three weeks before the date of your recital. All programs (junior, senior, MM, DMA, GAC, guest artist, faculty, ensemble) are due to the College of Music Program Office (MU241) 3 weeks prior to the event and should be submitted to Linda.Strube@unt.edu. The program request PDF form is available here: https://music.unt.edu/sites/default/files/recitalProgramInformationSheet.pdf.  The form contains information designed to help you gather the required information for the program. You are responsible for researching dates of composers and compositions and proofreading the information for accuracy. Please include complete information on the performers and instruments. Recitals must have program notes written by the recitalist.

Information required: title of piece, year of composition, composer name, composer birth and/or death years (for each piece/composer) and, if applicable, movements to be performed. Completed digital programs can be retrieved at https://music.unt.edu/scheduling/program-archives.

Dress
Concert attire should meet professional expectations that are appropriate for a degree recital. Consult with your faculty advisors in advance on this matter.

If you have a question about your recital that is not answered here, please check with your major professor(s).

5 months 4 weeks ago

3.03 Jazz Studies as a related field

Master's and doctoral students who wish to study Jazz Studies as a related field must audition with a Jazz Studies faculty member before enrolling in courses. This is a catalog requirement. In the audition, the student must meet the level of the degree that they are working towards. In other words, a master's student must meet the entering level of the M.M. in Jazz Studies, and a doctoral student must meet the entering level of the DMA in Performance with a major in Jazz Studies. Jazz studies professors may have more specific requirements for this audition.

Jazz Saxophone: Saxophonists who wish to do the DMA related field in jazz studies must do the following:

  1. Make an appointment with the Professor of Jazz Saxophone to discuss the audition requirements.
  2. Arrange for a rhythm section of piano, bass, and drums for the audition.
  3. Prepare the following jazz repertoire, to be selected by the Professor of Jazz Saxophone, in advance:
    • a. up-tempo
    • b. ballad
    • c. medium tempo
  4. At the audition, perform a jazz standard from a concert key lead sheet provided by the Professor of Jazz Saxophone. For further information, contact the Chair of the Jazz Studies division.
6 months 2 days ago

3.04 Second Bachelor's degree status and IELI

Admission into second bachelor's degree status in Jazz Studies is possible only in one of two strictly defined situations:

  1. A student who already has a completed bachelor's degree in a major other than jazz studies who wishes to earn a complete second bachelor's degree in Jazz Studies. Students admitted under this condition will be ineligible to enter the M.M. in Jazz Studies degree program while working towards the Second Bachelor's degree. At the completion of the Second Bachelor's degree, the student will be eligible to apply for the M.M. in Jazz Studies. Admission to the M.M. in Jazz Studies is not automatic for students who complete the B.M. in Jazz Studies.
  2. A student who successfully auditions for the M.M. in Jazz Studies, but who is required take additional English language study in order to successfully demonstrate English language proficiency. Students admitted under this condition must follow this sequence of actions:
    • Audition successfully for admission to the M.M. in Jazz Studies
    • Complete English language instruction at a level that enables admission to UNT
    • After completing English language study, audition again with a Jazz Studies faculty member for admission to the M.M. in Jazz Studies. Meet all requirements for admission to the M.M. in Jazz Studies, including passing either the GRE Analytical Writing Exam or the Jazz Studies In-House Writing Exam. There are three possible outcomes of this audition and exam:
  3. Admission to the M.M. in Jazz Studies
  4. Denial of admission to the M.M. in Jazz Studies and denial of permission to continue in Second Bachelor's status. In this case, the student's work in Jazz Studies in any status would stop.
  5. Permission to remain in Second Bachelor's status for a maximum of one additional year, during which the student will take undergraduate courses under the supervision of the Jazz Studies Chair/Graduate Advisor. At the end of this year, there will be another audition and a review of academic progress.
    • There are two possible outcomes of this audition and review:
      1. Admission to the M.M. in Jazz Studies
      2. Denial of admission to the M.M. in Jazz Studies and denial of permission to continue in Second Bachelor's status. In this case, the student's work in Jazz Studies in any status would stop.
6 months 2 days ago

3.05 Scholarships

The Jazz Studies program awards performance and arranging scholarships on a competitive basis. For complete information on scholarships, visit the Jazz Studies website and the College of Music website. Graduate students who are receiving a scholarship are required to participate in a lab.

6 months 2 days ago

3.06 Teaching Fellowships and Assistantships

Teaching fellowships and assistantships are awarded to qualified graduate students within the Division of Jazz Studies.
 
Criteria for the selection of Teaching Assistants/Teaching Fellows in Jazz Studies includes any number of the following:

  • The recommendation of a Division of Jazz Studies faculty member.
  • Outstanding musicianship: Must demonstrate a high level of skill.
  • Communication skills: Ability to communicate effectively and give/receive direction at a high level.
  • For Lab Band directors: Completion of Conducting College Jazz Ensembles (MUJS 5470), or equivalent experience. Exceptions must be approved by the Chair of Jazz Studies.

See Sections 5.4 – 5.8 of the Faculty Handbook for more information regarding Teaching Assistant/Teaching Fellow requirements from the College of Music.

6 months 2 days ago

3.07 Changing tracks in the M.M. in Jazz Studies

Students are admitted into one of the two tracks (Performance and Composition). Students who want to change tracks need to check with the faculty supervisor to get permission. If the request is approved, the faculty supervisor needs to let the graduate advisor know about the change in writing. If the student has already filed a degree plan using the old track, a new degree plan needs to be filed using the requirements for the new track.

Supervisors:

6 months 2 days ago

3.08 Master's degree plan

Each student in the master's program must file a degree plan once they have earned 12 graduate hours towards the degree. Srudents are invited to file it before then as well.

Students will need a copy of the letter or email that stated their jazz studies leveling courses assigned after the review of their transcript and the results of their GPE exams (which is in the gradebook of the GPE organization on Canvas). If they do not have those documents, they can request copies from the Office of Graduate Studies. They'll also need to refer to tjeor transcript.

The degree plan form is a PDF that you type into in Adobe Reader or Acrobat, then submit. It might not work correctly if you do it in another PDF reader or in a browser. This is the degree plan PDF.

At the same time students submit the degree plan form, they must also submit the Committee Designation Form, which is linked to this page on the Graduate Studies site. While they completing this form, students can enter the following:

  • For Degree Sought, enter: M.M.
  • For Major, enter: Jazz Studies;
  • Leave Related Field blank.

The committee members are the student's major professor(s), the department chair, and a full-time jazz studies faculty member, preferably an individual you have had classes with.

6 months 2 days ago

3.09 Master's designation of committee form

The Toulouse Graduate School requires each student to file a Committee Designation Form, which is linked to this page on the Graduate Studies site. Students must file this form at the time you file the degree plan. The three committee members are the student's major professor(s), the department chair, and a full-time jazz studies faculty member, preferably an individual you have had classes with.

6 months 2 days ago

3.10 Master's program entrance requirements

1. Meet the university and College of Music requirements for graduate admission.
2. Play an audition that demonstrates technical and improvisational skill at the level of MUJS 3360. See Graduate Improvisation Entrance Exam, below.
3. Submit manuscripts (and recordings) that demonstrate arranging skill equivalent to the level of MUJS 3620. See section 3.14 - Graduate Improvisation Course Placement of the catalog.
4. Demonstrate proficiency in the knowledge of Jazz History by the grade of B or better in MUJS 4470 Jazz History, or by taking the Jazz History Proficiency Examination.

6 months 2 days ago

3.11 Frequently-Asked Questions about Graduate Advising

It's a good practice for jazz studies master's students to check this page once in a while. New questions are added and answers are revised.

6 years 11 months ago

3.11.01 Q: How can I chose an elective in music outside of jazz studies?

The required six hours of elective credit need to be 5000-level courses, in music, but not a MUJS course and not a jazz studies lab or ensemble.

Options include:

  • MUCE - Music Careers and Entrepreneurship courses
  • MUET - Ethnomusicology courses
  • MUET 5030 - Music Cultures of the World
  • MUET 5050 - Music of Africa
  • MUET 5060 - African American Music
  • MUET 5617 - African Music and Movement
  • World music ensembles would also count if taken at the 5000-level.
  • MUMH - Music History courses
    • There are period courses like MUMH - 5343 Western Music History, 1900 to the Present, and MUMH 5440 - Music in the United States, that are relevant to a jazz major's interests. A

Also possible:

  • MUCP - Composition courses
  • MUTH - Music Theory courses
  • MUED - Music Education courses
    • Recommended: MUED 6580 - College Teaching of Music Courses (Master's students can take this 6000-level course)
  • Applied study outside of jazz
6 months 2 days ago

3.11.04 Q: How do I register for MUJS 5535 Jazz Recital?

A. See the Jazz Studies Administrative Coordinator to register for this course.

6 months 2 days ago

3.11.05 Q: How do I schedule the comprehensive exam?

How to register for the comprehensive exam:

  1. Choose your third committee member. The first two committee members are the student’s applied teacher and the Jazz Division Coordinator of Graduate Studies. This third committee member should be a faculty member with whom the student should have had at least one class, lesson, or ensemble.
  2. Schedule a one-hour exam time that works for everyone's schedule. It must take place before the Jazz Studies deadline for the M.M. Comprehensive Exam, which is always two weeks before the Toulouse Graduate School deadline for receiving the results of the comprehensive exam (typically in week 9 or 10 of the semester). This policy began in fall 2010. This is to allow two weeks for those students who are assigned a review assignment as a result of the exam. Students who are assigned a complete retake may not retake it sooner than two weeks after the exam, but they may retake it before the end of that semester, or later, at the discretion of the faculty committee.
  3. The Toulouse Graduate School deadline is labeled "Final Submission Deadline" at this link in the "Graduation Deadlines" section.
  4. Exams are held in a committee member's office, so you don't need to schedule a room for the exam.
  5. There is not a class to register for to take the comprehensive exam.
  6. The comprehensive exam can only be done in a Fall or Spring semester.
6 months 1 day ago

3.11.07 Q: Is it automatic that I can graduate once I have finished all of the courses on my degree plan?

No, you need to formally apply to graduate. It does not happen automatically. Read about this process here: http://tsgs.unt.edu/academics/graduation.

6 months 2 days ago

3.11.08 Q: What are the course numbers for ensemble holding sections?

A. Students should register for these sections of our large ensembles. After auditions, the Jazz Studies Administrative Coordinator will swap you into the section for the ensemble(s) you are placed in. 

Graduate Students: 
Are you planning to…

  • Play an instrument in a lab/ensemble (including a vocal jazz ensemble)? Enroll in MULB 5174.500.
  • Sing in a vocal jazz ensemble? Enroll in MULB 5174.522.
  • Play guitar in a guitar ensemble? Enroll in MULB 5174.516.
  • Play viola, violin, cello, or harp in Jazz Strings Lab? Enroll in MULB 5174.529.
    • Rhythm section players (bass, guitar, piano, or drum set) must be placed in this ensemble, so they should enroll in the lab band/ensemble holding section: MULB 5174.500.
  • Participate in Jazz Chamber Music? Enroll in MUCM 5550.500.

Enroll in the Division of Jazz Studies Canvas page to see audition results.

6 months 2 days ago

3.14 Graduate Improvisation Course Placement

After acceptance as a Graduate Jazz Major, major professor(s)- in consultation with the improvisation coordinator and relevant improvisation faculty- will place all grad students in improvisation courses based on their College of Music audition.

The following are some general ways that we might assign leveling requirements to incoming graduate students. Please consult your own degree plan for your own personalized leveling requirements.

For VOCAL EMPHASIS graduate students, the leveling requirements (if needed) are generally MUJS 2370 Improv II and/or MUJS 5130 Vocal Jazz Styles. You would then enroll in the vocal section of MUJS 5490 (graduate level improvisation).

For INSTRUMENTAL EMPHASIS NON-LEAD players, we may require MUJS 3360 Improv III, MUJS 3370 Improv IV, or both, depending on the needs of the student. You may then enroll in the instrumental section of MUJS 5490 (graduate level improvisation).

For INSTRUMENTAL EMPHASIS LEAD players (you must be admitted primarily as a lead player), the leveling requirements (if needed) are generally MUJS 2360 Improv I and MUJS 2370 Improv II. You may then choose to enroll in the non-lead instrumental section of MUJS 5490 (graduate level improvisation), or you can enroll in a more specialized lead section of MUJS 5490 that will be offered irregularly according to the number of lead players needing the course. We recommend that most lead players enroll in the lead section of 5490, unless you are a very comfortable improviser and feel that you can "hang" in the non-lead instrumental section.

Due to the low number of graduate lead players in this program, we ask that you stay in touch with the Jazz Studies division chair (as found at this link: https://jazz.unt.edu/faculty) about your anticipated graduation date, so that we can ensure that the lead section is offered at the appropriate time for your degree. We will aim to offer this section of MUJS 5490 at least once every two years, so that all lead players will have an opportunity to take it.

For ARRANGING EMPHASIS graduate students, graduate level improvisation is not part of your degree, so no leveling courses are required for improvisation. You may still opt to take any of the undergraduate or graduate leveling courses if you wish (although you would be held to the same grading standards as the performance emphasis students).

6 months 1 day ago

3.16 Jazz History Proficiency Examination

The Jazz History Proficiency Examination is offered during the week preceding each long semester. The exam is described on this website.

6 months 1 day ago

3.18 Master's Recital

  1. A graduate recital is required of all candidates for the degree Master of Music in Jazz Studies.
  2. Each candidate must have first removed any undergraduate and GPE deficiencies, and have passed either the Graduate Improvisation Proficiency Exam, or the Graduate Arranging Proficiency Exam.
  3. Each candidate must have also completed sixteen graduate credits toward the degree, at which time, the candidate may submit a proposed recital program in consultation with the applied teacher.
  4. Graduate recitals may be given at any time during long semesters, following the guidelines for scheduling in the recital packet. However, the date must be scheduled before the end of the seventh week of classes.
  5. A complete checklist of procedures, requirements and deadlines is contained in the Graduate Jazz Recital Guidelines (found in this handbook) along with any necessary forms.
  6. Current, former, retired, and adjunct faculty members may not participate in student degree recitals. Guest artists are not permitted in student degree recitals.
  7. Master's recitals must have program notes written by the recitalist. The notes must be reviewed by the major professor(s) before they are distributed.
  8. Follow the instructions listed on this website to book your recital: https://music.unt.edu/scheduling
6 months 1 day ago

3.19 Master's Comprehensive Exam

The master’s comprehensive exam is one-hour exam that is evaluated by a committee of three faculty: the student’s applied teacher, the Jazz Division Coordinator of Graduate Studies, and a third jazz faculty member invited by the student, with whom the student should have had at least one class, lesson, or ensemble. The questions will measure the student's understanding of (a) the history and repertoire of the student’s instrument in jazz, (b) important concepts and supporting material from all graduate coursework. There will also be questions designed to measure readiness to assume professional responsibilities as a jazz educator.

You will be expected to show a detailed knowledge of jazz repertoire and to recall material from classes and why it is significant. The exam tests more, however, than your recall of material from classes. It also tests your ability to demonstrate your competence in a professional situation that has a lot in common with a job interview. It measures how well you have been able to integrate all you have learned in classes and in your self-guided studies during your master's program. If a student does not pass the exam on the first attempt, a total of two additional attempts are permitted. Guidance will be given on how to prepare for a retake of the exam. Exams will be held in person unless the student secures written approval from the Jazz Division Coordinator of Graduate Studies to have one or more participants attend remotely (via Zoom or another video conferencing platform).

Last revised 2022.04.18

6 months 1 day ago

3.20 Prerequisites for MUJS 5540, Composition for the Media

Admission to MUJS 5540 requires the permission of the Professor of Jazz Composition and Arranging. Before requesting permission, please consider the following:

  1. The course is designed primarily for Graduate Jazz Arranging majors. Classical Composition majors who have some experience writing in a more commercial context are also welcomed but this is not mandatory for them.
  2. Students must have a comfortable command with creating digital audio soundtracks primarily through any of the following applications: Logic, Digital Performer, ProTools, Cubase, or some other similar format. A lesser alternative would be Finale with a Garritan Sound library. All assignments are generated via this digital format.
  3. Students outside of the Graduate Jazz Arranging track must present a digital audio representation of at least one music work for consideration to be accepted.
  4. The student must be an accomplished writer who can produce music quickly and also at a high quality standard. The average workload is at least one minute of music per week (composed and produced). Assignments become more difficult and time-consuming as the semester progresses. This class is required of all Graduate Jazz Arranging majors. Other students who are interested should consider carefully the weight of the course commitment and the considerable time it will take to complete the assignments.
6 months 2 days ago

3.21 Required Courses (Master of Music in Jazz Studies)

The most authoritative source for the required courses is the catalog. The catalog is now only published online. When you follow the link below, you'll see the undergraduate catalog. Use the drop-down menu at the top right of the page to switch to the graduate catalog. On that page, find College of Music in the left menu. At the bottom of that page, you'll see two links:

  • Display programs for College of Music (this shows degree programs and required courses)
  • Display courses for College of Music (this lists all of the courses with a brief description)

Here is the link to the catalog.

6 months 1 day ago

3.22 Transcript leveling and GPE review courses for students in the M.M. in Jazz Studies

Last updated: September 19, 2023

The purpose of this page is to explain the process of assigning leveling and review courses to students who are entering the M.M. in Jazz Studies program. Leveling and review courses for students in the DMA in Performance with local concentration in Jazz Studies are handled individually by the Jazz Studies graduate advisor. If you have any questions about this topic, please contact the Jazz Studies Division Chair, Division of Jazz Studies Graduate Advisor, or the graduate advisor in the College of Music Office of Graduate Studies.

This process is intended to be transparent. The purpose of leveling and review courses is to make sure that new graduate students have adequate preparation for graduate work.

Review courses may be assigned as a result of the Graduate Placement Examination (GPE), which is required of all new graduate students. Leveling courses may be assigned as the result of a review of your undergraduate transcript. The standard we use for this comparison is the Handbook of the National Association of Schools of Music, sections VIII-B and IX-F.

It's very important for you to understand that you have a role in determining how many hours of leveling and review courses you will be required to take. If you prepare well and pass all parts of the GPE, you'll have no hours from that category. If you prepare well and pass all of the jazz history proficiency exams and do well in placement auditions and the arranging review, you can ensure that you will have the minimum number of jazz studies leveling courses to take. The assignment of leveling and review courses can be discussed with your graduate advisor. If a course was assigned because a certain course was not found on your undergraduate transcript, for example, and it is present on the transcript and you point that out to the advisor, the list of leveling courses can be revised. Finally, if you think you can demonstrate that you have the knowledge and skills that are required by a course on your list of leveling courses, whether you have an equivalent course on your transcript or not, you can ask to demonstrate that. If you do so successfully, the course can be removed from the list.

Graduate Placement Exam (GPE) review courses
All new graduate students must take the Graduate Placement Examinations during new graduate student orientation prior to their first semester of enrollment. New graduate students receive information about these exams along with information about new graduate student orientation. Be sure to check your EagleConnect email for this and other important emails. Beginning in Fall 2019, only the post-1750 portion of the music history exam will be required for Jazz Studies majors.

An exemption policy exists for the music history portion of the exam. The policy is published on the College of Music Graduate Studies site. Note the deadline for applying for the exemption.

Several courses can be assigned as review courses depending on your score on the GPE and the degree you are seeking. Students who are admitted are provided with information about the prep course.

For Jazz Studies majors, review courses with MUMH and MUTH prefixes must be passed with a grade of C or higher in order to count towards the Jazz Studies M.M. degree.

Leveling Courses assigned as a result of transcript evaluation
All leveling courses in this section must be passed with a grade of B or higher in order to count towards the degree.

1. Prerequisites for Jazz Improvisation classes
All new jazz M.M. students must take these proficiency tests before the start of their first semester. Jazz fundamentals courses taken elsewhere are not accepted for transfer credit. NASM policy: VIII-B-2-a and b, XI-F-3-a.

If you do not pass one or more of the proficiency exams, you will be directed to take the corresponding graduate review course:

  • MUJS 2500 - Theory IV (Jazz) [Offered in Spring only] > MUJS 5362 - Graduate Review of Jazz Theory
  • MUJS 2510 - Aural Skills IV (Jazz) [Offered in Spring only] > MUJS 5361 - Graduate Review of Jazz Aural Skills
  • MUJS 1014 - Keyboard Skills IV (for Jazz Studies Majors) > MUJS 5363 - Graduate Review of Jazz Keyboard Skills

2. Jazz Improvisation
Starting level is assigned by audition with the improvisation faculty at the start of each fall and spring semester. Improvisation courses taken elsewhere are not accepted for transfer credit. Improvisation skills equivalent to the level of MUJS 2360 and 2370 are required for admission to the program.

  • MUJS 2360 and 2370 are required prerequisites for MUJS 5480 - Pedagogy of Jazz.
  • MUJS 3360 and 3370 are prerequisites for MUJS 5490, Advanced Jazz Improvisation (Performance track).

When you are placed into a level of improvisation class, that you don't have to take the courses underneath that level. For example, if you are placed into Improv 3 (MUJS 3360) by audition, then MUJS 2360 and 2370 are automatically taken care of in your list of leveling courses. NASM policy: IX-F-3-a.

The undergraduate course in which these skills are taught are:

  • MUJS 2360 - Jazz Improvisation I
  • MUJS 2370 - Jazz Improvisation II
  • MUJS 3360 - Jazz Improvisation III
  • MUJS 3370 - Jazz Improvisation IV

If you do not pass one or more of these proficiency exams, you will be directed to take MUJS 5370, Graduate Review of Jazz Improvisation.

Jazz vocalists who are advised to take Improv levels 3 and 4 will take MUJS 5120 and MUJS 5130.

3. Jazz Arranging
Arranging skill equivalent to the level of MUJS 3620 is required for admission to the program. Arranging courses taken elsewhere are not accepted for transfer credit. Students must take the classes or demonstrate their skills by submitting a portfolio of small group and big band arrangements to the Professor of Jazz Composition and Arranging. MUJS 4620 is the prerequisite for MUJS 5760, Jazz Arranging (Composition track). NASM policy: IX-F-3-a.

The undergraduate course in which these skills are taught are:

  • MUJS 3610 - Jazz Arranging I
  • MUJS 3620 - Jazz Arranging II
  • MUJS 4610 - Jazz Arranging III
  • MUJS 4620 - Jazz Arranging IV

Graduate students who are directed to take one or more of these arranging classes will use the graduate course numbers MUJS 5610, 5620, 5630, or 5640.

4. Jazz History
Jazz history courses taken elsewhere are not accepted for transfer credit. MUJS 3070 - History of Jazz is a prerequisite for MUJS 5440. Students can test out of it by taking the Jazz History Proficiency Exam by appointment.
Graduate students who need to take this course should take MUJS 5430, Graduate Review of Jazz History, instead of MUJS 3070. In MUJS 5430, you will attend and meet higher requirements for course work than the undergraduates have. NASM policy: IX-F-3-a.

5. MUAG 5805 - Fundamentals of Conducting
This is a required prerequisite for MUJS 5470, Conducting College Jazz Ensembles, which is required for all tracks. It is assigned as a leveling course if the undergraduate transcript does not show a conducting course. If you have the equivalent conducting skills, you may ask to demonstrate them for the instructor of MUJS 5470. If you do so successfully, this leveling course will be removed. NASM policy: VIII-B-1-d.

6 months 1 day ago

3.23 DMA handbook

This degree is one of several local concentrations within the DMA in Performance. The policies that guide the DMA are published on this page of the graduate studies website: http://music.unt.edu/graduate/.

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3.24 DMA Dissertation recitals

The dissertation consists of three recitals plus a fourth activity that includes options for recital, written project, and lecture. The first three recitals can begin as soon as the DMA candidate starts their program if they receive permission from their major professor(s). The College of Music Graduate Studies Office provides the required form to request a recital. DMA recitals must have program notes written by the recitalist. The notes must be reviewed by the major professor before they are distributed. Jazz DMA students are required to attend recitals by the other jazz DMA students.

Current, former, retired, and adjunct faculty members may not participate in student degree recitals. Guest artists are not permitted in student degree recitals.

Instructions to book a recital can be found at this link to ScheduleFM Scheduling and Room Reservation instructions.

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3.25 One-page overview of the DMA Program

This page in the degrees section of this website presents an overview of the degree: http://jazz.unt.edu/dma-performance-jazz-studies.

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3.26 DMA Qualifying Examinations

The policy for DMA qualifying exams is stated on the Graduate Studies website. Please be aware that for part of your qualifying exams, you will be expected to demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of jazz history and repertoire, jazz analysis, and jazz pedagogy. Student should work with their major professor(s) beginning in their first semester to prepare for those parts of the exam. Work with the Jazz Division Coordinator of Graduate Studies to prepare for other parts of the exam. In other words, you are responsible for knowing more than the topic of your dissertation research.

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3.27 Proficiency exams for new MM students who did their undergrad degree in Jazz Studies at UNT

New Jazz Studies master's students who completed the B.M. in Jazz Studies at UNT within two years of beginning the master's program do not have to take the proficiency exams in jazz theory, aural skills, and keyboard that correspond to MUJS 2400, 2410, 2500, 2510, and 1014.

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3.28 Degree Progress and Academic Dismissal Policy

Students must maintain satisfactory progress towards their degree and are subject to university policies regarding academic probation and suspension. In addition, they will be subject to dismissal from the program if one or more of the following conditions apply:

  1. If the student receives one grade of a C or lower in two consecutive semesters.
  2. If the student receives two grades of a C or lower in a single semester.
  3. If the student receives a grade of NPR for thesis or dissertation hours in two consecutive semesters.

In cases where one or more of these conditions apply, students will typically be removed from their program upon the recommendation of the director of graduate studies in consultation with the division chair and major professor. Students may appeal this decision by contacting the College of Music associate dean for academic affairs.

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3.29 Professional Expectation Policy

The UNT College of Music expects graduate students in music to be committed to their degree and to follow the UNT Code of Student Conduct (University Policy Manual, section 07.012). Success in a graduate program requires students not only to meet minimum academic standards but also to be active contributors to the artistic and scholarly community of the College of Music. Hence, students must exhibit professional behavior, which includes (but is not limited to):

1) attending classes and meetings (including seminars, masterclasses, and departmentals);

2) meeting area, division, college, and university deadlines; and

3) maintaining respectful interactions with all members of the UNT community.

Students are also expected to adhere to professional standards as outlined in division/area handbooks. In cases where there is substantial evidence of unprofessional behavior, students will be removed from their program upon the recommendation of the director of graduate studies in consultation with the Division Chair and major professor. Students may appeal this decision by contacting the College of Music Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs.

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Notice of Handbook Revisions

Important Notice: Due to recently approved jazz curricula and policy changes, this handbook is now out of date. Faculty and staff are working to revise this document to reflect current and forthcoming changes.

For the best up-to-date information, please refer to your academic adviosrs, mentor faculty, and Chair Rob Parton.

Dated: August 11, 2021

6 months 1 day ago