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Eastern Illinois University

Music: 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: Jazz Studies

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Degree Level
Minor
Delivery
In Person
Credit Hours
24 Total, 24 in Major
Music: Jazz Studies students at EIU

Why Study Music: Jazz Studies at EIU?

  • Learn improvisation with world-class jazz musicians
  • Play in big bands and combos coached by excellent faculty
  • Learn jazz history, theory, and arranging through various elective courses
"From the moment I stepped onto campus, every professor, staff member, and student I encountered treated me with such genuine warmth and respect, as if I were already a valued member of their community. Despite not having officially joined the EIU family, I immediately felt a deep sense of belonging. The atmosphere was one of comfort and inclusivity, where everyone seemed genuinely invested in my success and well-being."
Abbey McCord
Music: Jazz Studies | Class of 2025
Abbey McCord, Music: Jazz Studies at EIU

Hands-On Experience

  • Learn jazz standards
  • Play every day!
  • Practice disciplined and creative improvising
  • Write original music
Hands-On Experience, Music: Jazz Studies students at EIU

What You'll Learn

The Jazz Studies minor offers a strong foundation in jazz performance and improvisation, history, theory and arranging. It is a fit if you play an instrument well and want to deepen your skills in improvisation, composing and arranging, whether you are a music major or a non-music major.

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Connect With Us

Shellie Gregorich
Chair, School of Music | Professor of Music Theory/Piano
slgregorich@eiu.edu
2620 Doudna Fine Arts Center
217-581-2246
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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

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