Jazz Overview
Improvise on a finer stage. Gain exposure in prominent jazz venues. Jazz at the University of Toronto is a robustly performance-focused area of study delivered by practicing professional jazz musicians to a talented community of students united by a love of jazz.
U of T Jazz Acknowledgement of Black American Music
The foundation and tradition of jazz music were largely created by Black American musicians who endured the brutality of systemic racial discrimination and white supremacy. Despite the social barriers and persecution these musicians faced, their artistry resulted in the creation of this most influential of American art forms, an innovative musical genre rooted in the blues, improvisation, and Afro-American culture. U of T Jazz acknowledges the debt owed to these artists, recognizes that systemic racism continues, and commits to anti-racism in our curriculum and our community.
Programs
Create
At U of T Jazz, students develop and showcase their creative talents with their peers in over 50 annual performances, many held in a professional club setting. All students join one or more ensembles in which they are encouraged to compose their own music.
Perform
At least twice a year, they perform on stage in ensembles or individually at an internationally recognized Toronto jazz club that regularly hosts many of the world’s finest musicians. Audiences attend to experience the emerging-talent atmosphere our jazz students have created during more than 30 years of weekly school-year performances at the club.
Collaborate
Ensemble opportunities include playing with and composing for more than 20 large and small ensembles—among them a big band, a 10tet, and a hybrid ensemble comprised of jazz and classical students. Vocalists perform in the Vocal Jazz Ensemble, a large jazz choir known for its diverse music and improvisational practices. Vocalists also have the opportunity to sing individually in small jazz ensembles.
While U of T Jazz focuses primarily on acoustic jazz in myriad forms, including open improvisation and world music, a wide range of musical interests shape the direction of the ensembles. Much of the repertoire is student-driven, and original composition is encouraged and celebrated.
Riff on Learning
Our Faculty Performs
As professional performers first and foremost, U of T Jazz faculty offer unique and individualistic perspectives. Their shared approach to teaching honours the jazz tradition while incorporating trends in modern jazz.
One-on-One Instruction
Jazz students receive weekly one-on-one applied lessons focusing on instrumental and/or vocal technique and improvisation. In later years, they may have the opportunity to study with a faculty member who plays a different instrument to broaden their understanding of the music as a whole.
Learn from Legends
Masterclasses delivered by distinguished jazz musicians make essential contributions to U of T Jazz learning. Some 12-16 such events occur every year. They include a multi-day visit by a John and Claudine Bailey Distinguished Visitor in Jazz. Terri-Lyne Carrington, Tim Hagans, Nicole Mitchell, and Maria Schneider are examples of past visitors.
Help Make a Scene
The study of Jazz at the University of Toronto occurs at the heart of an eclectic music city with a serious jazz scene. In its concert halls and clubs, at its festivals and on its streets, the city offers exposure to performers from world-renowned jazz heroes and internationally recognized up-and-comers to local talents exploring exciting new avenues in jazz. Many venues provide performance opportunities for students themselves.
Upcoming Events
– Ben EdgecombThe U of T Jazz Program has given me many opportunities to play in professional settings, allowing me to gain real industry experience while still in school. Many of my academic performances have led to professional performance opportunities in the city.
Bachelor of Music 2018 - Comprehensive Studies (Jazz Saxophone)
– Jacob ChungI deeply cherish my four years in UofT’s Jazz Performance program. My professors encouraged me to try new things, make mistakes, and push my limits; they challenged and supported me at every turn. I am so fortunate to have also been immersed in a community of talented peers who were serious about making music and whose energy and talent pushed me to rise to each occasion. My time in the Jazz Performance program primed me to start a career in jazz and take full advantage of significant professional opportunities in Canada and the USA.
Bachelor of Music in Performance 2022 - Jazz Saxophone
University of Toronto Jazz Online
Have a question?
Contact our Jazz Area Head for more information about our Jazz area and programs.