Jazz Studies

Jazz Studies at BU attracts talented students from coast-to-coast. This year, seven small jazz groups and two large jazz ensembles give frequent performances at Brandon University and at off-campus locations. The small groups play weekly at a downtown café.

The Jazz Studies Program at Brandon University offers students a unique and comprehensive course of study leading to the Bachelor of Music degree in Jazz Performance. Our carefully designed curriculum was crafted by full time faculty members Greg Gatien, Michael Cain and Eric Platz. Through personalized instruction, we provide high-level training in a dynamic and supportive learning environment.

Based on the tried and true tradition of artist-as-mentor, students work closely with experienced faculty as they learn first hand about the language of jazz. This work blends detailed study of the music’s history, theory, and performance practices. Our diverse curriculum also includes instruction in the areas of jazz improvisation, composition, arranging, and pedagogy. Emphasis is placed on small group playing as a means of exploring advanced solo and ensemble techniques. Outside the classroom, students experience numerous opportunities to perform, record, rehearse, and study privately.

Every year the School of Music hosts several concerts, workshops, and master classes given by distinguished visiting artists. This year we will welcome Canadian jazz legend Don Thompson and American pianist Michael Cain as our featured artists in residence. Past performers and clinicians include Bob Brookmeyer, Dave Young, Mike Murley, Kirk MacDonald, and many others. Lastly, the Brandon Jazz Festival is an annual event that energizes our city and attracts thousands of fans and participants from all over North America.

For more information contact the School of Music or visit us during our annual open house.

” The Jill Hodson Memorial Jazz Collection”, was donated in order to augment the resources available to School of Music students enrolled in coursework or ensembles in the area of jazz studies. Comprised of recordings, history books, general interest books, videos, and periodicals, this collection contains materials that will be of interest and benefit to a range of people, from the serious jazz musician to the interested lay person. To quickly view the contents of the collection, students can click here.

Donated by Mr. Dave Hodson in loving memory of his daughter, this collection is currently housed in room 1-33 in the Queen Elizabeth II School of Music. Its contents are accessible to Brandon University music students enrolled in jazz studies courses or ensembles. Arrangements can be made to view the collection and borrow materials by contacting Professor Greg Gatien (gatieng@brandonu.ca). Eligible students may borrow up to three items for a period of one week.

Anyone interested in making a contribution to this collection is encouraged to contact the School of Music office.