Music, BM with Jazz and Contemporary Music Emphasis

Bachelor’s Degree offered in On-campus and Blended formats.

*On-campus format may require some online classes for degree completion.

• Program Requirements

Develop Your Artistry in Jazz and Contemporary Music

Lindenwood University’s Bachelor of Music with a Jazz and Contemporary Music Emphasis prepares aspiring musicians to excel as performers, composers, arrangers, and collaborators in today’s evolving music industry. The program combines a strong foundation in music theory, history, ear training, and technology with specialized instruction in jazz and contemporary performance, improvisation, composition, and arranging.

Through private lessons, ensemble participation, and recital performances, students refine their technical abilities while developing the confidence and versatility needed for a successful career in music.

Why Choose the Jazz and Contemporary Music Emphasis?

What You’ll Study

Students complete a comprehensive music curriculum while specializing in areas such as:

• Jazz and Contemporary Performance
• Improvisation
• Contemporary Harmony
• Jazz and Contemporary Arranging
• Composition
• Music Technology
• Music Career Development
• Private Lessons and Ensemble Performance

The program culminates in both a Junior Recital and Senior Recital, providing students with opportunities to showcase their growth as performers while building professional performance experience.

Performance Experience

Performance is at the heart of the Jazz and Contemporary Music emphasis. Students receive individualized instruction through private lessons while participating in jazz bands and instrumental ensembles that reinforce collaboration, musicianship, and artistic growth.

Throughout the program, students develop skills in:

• Improvisation
• Ensemble performance
• Musical interpretation
• Performance preparation
• Stage presence
• Collaboration across musical styles

Career Opportunities

Graduates are prepared for careers across the performance, composition, education, and music industries.

Potential career paths include:

• Professional Jazz or Contemporary Performer
• Composer
• Arranger
• Session Musician
• Music Director
• Private Music Instructor
• Music Producer
• Band Leader
• Arts Entrepreneur

Why Study Jazz and Contemporary Music?

Successful musicians need more than technical ability—they must be creative collaborators, adaptable performers, and lifelong learners who can thrive in a constantly evolving industry.

By combining intensive performance training with composition, arranging, music technology, and career preparation, the Jazz and Contemporary Music emphasis equips graduates with the artistic and professional skills needed to pursue meaningful careers in music.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need previous jazz experience to pursue this emphasis?

Students should have a strong musical foundation and an interest in jazz and contemporary performance. Faculty help students develop their skills in improvisation, harmony, arranging, and ensemble performance throughout the program.

What types of ensembles will I have the opportunity to perform with?

Students can perform with many ensembles, including Jazz Band, Jazz Combos, Modern Music Ensemble (pop/rock band), and Endeavor (experimental improvisation group).

What professional skills will I gain beyond performance?

In addition to advanced musical training, students complete coursework focused on developing a successful career in today’s music industry. Topics include audience development, self-promotion, talent management, performance practices, and other practical skills that help graduates confidently launch and manage their professional careers.