<p>A couple months back, Downbeat magazine (the numero uno in jazz magazines) did an article of the best schools to study jazz music at. I don't have a copy myself, but one of my friends told me about it. Out of curiosity, does anybody have a copy and mind sharing the details?</p>
<p>Thanks!</p>
<p>The edition you want is October 2006. Unfortunately, I've been unable to get my hands on a copy of the magazine or to access the articles. Try your local library.</p>
<p>I have the issue in question (10/06) and from what I understand, it's an annual education issue published every October. It's doesn't do any rankings per say, just some interesting articles, and an alphabetical listing by geographic area (North, South East West, Mid-West). Each school lists the number of jazz majors, faculty, prominent alumni, cost, who to contact, and other great but basic info for starting a search.</p>
<p>My DS is also a jazz guitarist, having switched from rock and blues a few years ago. Be aware that some schools emphasize big band/horns and other schools smaller ensembles and more of an improvisation style. </p>
<p>Hope this helps....</p>
<p>There's a new one now, the 2007 version, and it is a great little resource because it names all the jazz programs out there. It gives faculty and deadlines, although some of those are misleading because there are early and priority kinds of deadlines that I noticed are missing. I have a son (guitar) who is a HS Senior now, who is applying to jazz programs, and what we have found so far that appeal to him are:
MSM
NEC
New School
Berklee (not a top choice because of size, but we'll see!)
Hartt
University of the Arts (this relatively unknown school appears to have a very exciting jazz program, and Philly is an appealing jazz scene)
UMass Amherst (jazz program and conventional college experience--he needed at least one on his list!!)
Purchase </p>
<p>My biggest anxiety is whether or not he has enough "safe" choices.</p>
<p>What we have found personally and by talking to teachers at MSM precollege is that the real jazz programs out there are few and far between. Yes, there is that more traditional big band type of emphasis, and if you are a guitar player, you want to be where the small combos and improv opportunities are. So, those programs listed above were ones we ferreted out that seem to have those qualities that are good for guitarists. A great jazz scene is also a must for my son.</p>
<p>I'm sure you can find that new Downbeat on a newstand!</p>
<p>William Patterson in NJ has a good jazz program. That could be a decent "safety" for your S.</p>
<p>Yes, WPU is on his list, but they have a really late deadline so I think we are kind of waiting to see if he needs to apply there come the Spring, or if his he has good news from his top schools.</p>
<p>jazzzmomm- My son is an '07 Hartt grad (BM/viola performance). I'd be happy to try and answer any Hartt questions you have. No real experience with the jazz program, but I could probably identify who/where to address questions.</p>
<p>Thanks, violadad. I guess the best question is "was he happy there?"</p>
<p>He was quite happy musically, academically and socially. For him, it really was the perfect fit.</p>