North Central College - Naperville, IL

Jazz Studies

Why choose jazz studies at North Central College?

You’ll learn from internationally known faculty who are at the top of their game. Our talented musician-teachers know what it takes to succeed as a jazz artist, and they will help you do just that.

Our instrumental lessons last an hour each, rather than the 30 minutes common at other institutions. But we don’t stop at teaching you the art of jazz. Our faculty will also show you how to market and manage yourself, how to network effectively—in short, how to earn a living as a musician. And at a time when many schools are cutting back on the arts, North Central College is whole-heartedly supporting them through new venues, curriculum updates, stellar faculty and competitive scholarships.

You can also:

  • Join any of our many jazz ensembles, including Combos, Big Band, Vocal Jazz Ensemble, Chamber Jazz Ensembles, Jazz Guitar Ensemble, Jazz Saxophone Ensemble and many more. A jazz faculty member directs every group, so you’ll learn how to work effectively with a professional musician.
  • Forge valuable connections in the industry, thanks to faculty with established professional networks.

News

North Central College’s Wentz Concert Hall and Fine Arts Center has received an award from the Illinois chapter of the American Institute of Architects.
Aaron Williams, director of the Peace Corps, will deliver the address June 9 at the 147th Commencement ceremony of North Central College.
Jay Clayton and Janice Borla perform in "Hot Jazz-6 Cool Nites"
The 24th annual Janice Borla Vocal Jazz Camp and “Hot Jazz-6 Cool Nites” concert series will be presented at North Central College July 21-27.

News

Careers

Recent graduates in jazz studies include:

  • Professional performers
  • Jazz composer/arrangers
  • Public school teachers with jazz concentrations

Feature

Max Popp

Jazz studies major

A serious musician who practically lives in North Central’s practice rooms, Max takes every opportunity to rehearse with jazz ensembles.

“Being part of an ensemble is the best thing for your career,” he says. “This year I joined six groups, which gave me lots of opportunities to direct my own growth as a musician. With each group, you’re forced to change your mind and your playing. You have to be on your toes—stretching, improvising and thinking about what you’re going to do next.” And since all North Central ensembles are small, Max always has plenty of one-on-one contact with the faculty directing them.

What is Max’s goal for the future? “I want to be known for my art,” he says. “I’m confident of my abilities because I’ve learned so much from my professors.”

Feature

Eric Skov

Jazz Studies

After attending a concert by North Central’s jazz faculty, Eric knew where he wanted to study jazz.

“Their playing was amazing. When we talked after the concert, they were very personable and North Central felt like family from day one. The close proximity of campus to my home allowed me to continue teaching private lessons on weekends and stay connected to my family.”

Eric discovered his instructors were very passionate about their teaching. “They inspired me to go beyond what was asked and make the project something I truly cared about. I enjoyed the close connections with our teachers and seeing them perform. Here, learning isn’t limited to the classroom. Teachers are approachable and understanding and become your friends and mentors.”

Eric plans to pursue a career as a professional musician. “I’m teaching guitar students in the area, playing gigs as much as possible and plan to move to Chicago and see what can happen.”