With a focus on improvisational methods through memory, transcription and analysis, you will advance your instrumental proficiency, and deepen your knowledge of jazz history and theory to provide a well-rounded knowledge of the genre.

The opportunities to perform in recitals and concerts act not only as assessment tools, but preparatory gigs as students develop the skills required to perform as both band leader and band member. Collaborations are a major part of the jazz community, and these are actively fostered within our programme. School of Music students of the jazz, classical and popular music specialisations enjoy opportunities to work together and learn from each other’s practice.

Our Jazz specialisation is taught by some of New Zealand’s leading figures in the field. Staff are well connected in the industry locally and internationally, and these connections provide exciting learning and performance opportunities for students. Through collectives such as Creative Jazz Club Aotearoa, students have the chance to share the stage with their teachers and visiting musicians, performing both original works and music from the jazz repertoire.

We understand that decisions about where to study music are often based upon availability of specific teachers. See our jazz staff biographies.

You are invited to contact staff directly with any queries you may have.

You will develop your instrumental technique and improvisational skills through in-depth study of scales, rhythm, harmony and relevant music analysis. In your second year and beyond, you will continue to develop your performance practice through stylistic, interpretive and literary methods.

Working in large and small ensembles refines your musical literacy within the context of performance. With repertoire anywhere from the 1920s to contemporary jazz, you will develop your musicianship style, improvisation, composition, arrangement and performance. Advanced studies of theory, arranging and composition allow for a deeper understanding of the mechanisms of music making and will help to fuel your creativity.

All School of Music students have access to auxiliary performance studies. You will also study other topics of interest to you, including music education, pedagogy, music technology, conducting, music studies, musicians’ health and various industry-related topics.

The core courses of the BMus degree include music theory and other music studies subjects. You will also take a Waipapa Taumata Rau course and a General Education course.