No matter if you want to pursue your love of jazz at the highest level or keep playing in an ensemble while following interests outside of music, UW-Eau Claire is your destination.

The Jazz Culture

In the Jazz Studies area, we make a point to be as inclusive as possible of all types of students so that everyone can benefit from the many opportunities we offer students. The program has participants from many cultural, academic, and musical backgrounds. The goal here is for all students to learn from our faculty as well as from one another. In order to facilitate this kind of group learning, we regularly host Jazz Series events such as clinics and masterclasses, which bring phenomenal artists from around the world to the University. Additionally, there are open jam sessions every Monday night that are held at and sponsored by The Lakely eatery in downtown Eau Claire.

All Inclusive: Vibrant Environment 

UW-Eau Claire prepares students for today's music industry by NOT offering a Jazz Studies Degree. The world is changing and in order for students to be successful in it, they need to be trained in all music. When coming to UW-Eau Claire as a music major, the curriculum is primarily classical to give you a solid foundation for expressing yourself musically in any genre, including jazz, at the highest level.

"If no Jazz Studies Degree, how do students receive necessary training in jazz arranging and composition, improvisation and pedagogy for teaching?" The same way our innovators received it; through a rich, buzzing environment of over 100 students participating in four big bands, endless combos and countless events and projects. Training also comes from improvisation, combo classes and private lessons from nationally-renowned jazz educators on every instrument.

Ensemble Auditions

Jazz ensemble auditions take place on the second and third day of classes every semester. Audition materials can be obtained any time within the weeks leading up to a semester's audition dates by contacting Mr. Robert Baca.

Big Band Rehearsal Schedules

Jazz Ensemble I, TR, 12:30-1:45 p.m. and F, 1-1:50 p.m.
Jazz Ensemble II, MW, 12-12:50 p.m.
Jazz Ensemble III, MW, 1-1:50 p.m.
Jazz Ensemble IV, MW, 11-11:50 a.m.

Stay in Touch

Jazz Studies Faculty and Staff