Program Overview
The Jazz & Improvisational Music Department is a conservatory program within the Bachelor of Music degree at Lawrence. It is a nationally recognized, award-winning program known for its unique emphasis on jazz and global traditions, creative freedom and rigorous instruction. This program is built around a world of music and artistic exploration through study, performance, and collaboration. In addition to the B.Mus. degree, you can also pursue a jazz emphasis in performance or composition. Explore diverse jazz traditions and global music and customize your path with individual guidance and opportunities through a core jazz curriculum that prepares you for success in today’s evolving musical world. Lawrence graduates are well prepared for graduate study in jazz, as well as careers in jazz performance and composition.
Program Highlights
Perform with an Award-Winning Ensemble
Join the Lawrence University Jazz Ensemble, recognized with 34 DownBeat Student Music Awards over the past four decades.
Develop Your Sound
Deepen your skills in jazz improvisation and performance while collaborating with peers, exploring classic styles, and creating original music.
Create and Perform Beyond the Classroom
Gain experience through on- and off-campus performances, with composition woven into both small- and large-ensemble work.
Prepare for Advanced Study
Build the artistic, collaborative, and technical skills that support strong placement in jazz studies graduate and professional programs.
Types of Degrees
Students can pursue The Bachelor of Music Degree with a Jazz Emphasis in Performance and Composition. Admission to the Bachelor of Music in Composition or Performance with an emphasis in jazz and improvisational music may be granted to a limited number of students upon successful completion of classical qualifying examinations and with the approval of a candidate selection committee.
Advising
At Lawrence, academic advising helps you shape an educational experience that reflects your interests, goals, and aspirations. Your faculty advisor will support you as you plan your path, connect with campus resources and communities, and make informed decisions that prepare you for a meaningful and fulfilling future.
Faculty
You’ll be in good hands with professors who combine world-class artistry with a passion for teaching.
Chairs
Jose L. Encarnacion (He/Him/His)
Associate Professor of Music and Director of Jazz Studies
jose.l.encarnacion@lawrence.edu
José L. Encarnación leads the jazz improvisation classes, directs the LU Jazz Band, coaches jazz small groups, teaches applied jazz saxophone, coordinates the jazz performance program and Chairs the Jazz…
View Full ProfileLearning Spaces
Students work in dedicated rehearsal spaces equipped with a piano, electric keyboard, drum set, and bass and guitar amplifiers. Students also have access to a computer, projector and sound systems to watch and listen to online visual performances and audio recordings for analysis and discussions in classes and rehearsals. Recording spaces such as the SOL studios and the LU recording studio are also available to students for recording sessions. These spaces help students document their jazz, rock, bluegrass, etc. performances, compositions, arrangements and pedagogical demonstrations. These materials are expected to be assembled as an audio CD, audio/visual DVD or for a personal website for future use after graduation.
