The Program

Hope College has an active Jazz Studies Area that provides performance opportunities in both small groups and large ensembles, classes in history, theory, improvisation, and composition, and private jazz instruction. The program values the diversity of its students, and whether you are interested in performance, composition, education, or scholarship, Hope has a place for you. Graduates of the Jazz Studies program at Hope are routinely accepted to top jazz graduate schools including the University of Cincinnati Conservatory of Music, Indiana University and the University of South Florida.

The Jazz Studies program at Hope can be as rigorous as the major or as supplementary as playing in a combo. A jazz minor is also available, allowing students to take a middle role in the program. Students in all areas of the program will benefit from the proven track record of the exceptional faculty.

Jazz at Hope has much more to offer than ensemble
experience and academic training. Each year the
program brings in world famous guest artists who give
clinics, work with students, and perform with student
and faculty groups.

Student ensembles have released several CDs that
contain standard tunes as well as student compositions. Hope has also participated in a joint research symposium with Kenyon College at which students and faculty present research papers.