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Music Performance: Jazz Studies

The Jazz Studies program offers a comprehensive study of jazz music through academic and performance experiences. Classroom instruction in improvisation, history, and composing and arranging provide a deep knowledge of the discipline. Students rehearse and perform in big bands and combos with several performances per semester.

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Music Performance: Jazz Studies

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Degree Level
Bachelor of Music
Delivery
In Person
Time to Degree
8 Semesters
Credit Hours
127 Total, 91 in Major
Careers
Drama,, Postsecondary, Musicians, Singers, Directors, Composers
Music Performance: Jazz Studies students at EIU

Why Study Music Performance: Jazz Studies at EIU?

  • Study improvisation with dedicated teachers
  • Perform in big bands and combos directed and coached by excellent faculty
  • Develop a deep knowledge of jazz and its theory and history
  • Interact with great guest artists, including at the annual EIU Jazz Festival
"EIU is the only school within reasonable commuting distance from my home. I had already earned a degree in psychology from another university, which was more expensive. I stuck with this decision after meeting the music faculty, as they were warm and inviting during the application process."
Seth Harshman
Jazz Studies - Performance | Class of 2025
Seth Harshman, Jazz Studies - Performance at EIU

Hands-On Experience

  • Students play music every day. They learn jazz standards, further their improvisational skills, and write new music. Their work is regularly featured in performances on campus and across the region.
  • Recent guest artists have included Randy Brecker, Fred Hersch, John Clayton, and Chuck Israels.
  • The EIU Jazz Ensemble’s latest recordings, My Favorite Thing (2026) and Body and Soul (2025) are available on streaming platforms.
  • Jazz majors perform regularly in combos and big band and complete three recitals before graduation. Jazz combos and senior jazz recitals feature original student compositions and arrangements.
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Hands-On Experience, Music Performance: Jazz Studies students at EIU

What You'll Learn

Eastern offers a comprehensive study of jazz through academic and performance experiences. Students study improvisation, history, composition, and arranging.  This program is a fit if you are a committed musician who wants to take your skills to the next level.  You receive individualized training on your primary instrument, with weekly one-on-one lessons, and perform in big bands and combos with several performances each semester.  

View in Catalog
$49,236
Median Salary 4 Years After Graduation

Career Outcomes

  • Art, Drama, & Music Teachers,…
  • Musicians & Singers
  • Music Directors & Composers

Career Insights

Job Outlook Average Outlook
Preparation Needed Considerable (4/5)
Personality Fit Artistic

Connect With Us

Shellie Gregorich
Chair, School of Music | Professor of Music Theory/Piano
slgregorich@eiu.edu
2620 Doudna Fine Arts Center
217-581-5946
Shellie Gregorich Message Shellie

Message Shellie

or email slgregorich@eiu.edu directly
Paul Johnston
Professor of Jazz Studies and Jazz Piano
prjohnston@eiu.edu
Doudna Fine Arts Center
217-581-2246
Paul Johnston Message Paul

Message Paul

or email prjohnston@eiu.edu directly
Billy Panther
Head of Panther Pride
Old Main
217-581-2223
Billy the Panther Message Billy

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or email billy@eiu.edu directly

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