Jazz Composition Major . Students admitted as jazz composition majors normally begin the sequence of courses in private composition in their first year of study, and they are expected to explore a variety of styles and idioms. Jazz composition study culminates with the public presentation of original works for jazz ensembles of various sizes. All majors complete courses in music theory and music history, as well as liberal arts courses in the College of Arts and Sciences. Jazz studies courses cover a wide range of topics, including jazz aural skills, jazz keyboard, jazz theory, basic arranging and composing techniques, improvisation, and the history of jazz.
Majors also complete requirements in aural skills, sight singing, and piano proficiency.
A number of jazz ensembles are formed each semester. In addition to the Oberlin Jazz Ensemble, there are several smaller groups ranging from trios to octets. Oberlin Wind Ensemble. Many have also recorded albums under their own names.