The class is available by audition and is open to any PLU student, vocal or instrumental. This class is a core course of study for all music majors, vocal and instrumental, at PLU and has a theory prerequisite for qualification. The course presents, lectures, live performances, and multi-media to nurture an appreciation and awareness of the artists and musical developments of America's unique artistic contribution to the world. Emphasis is also placed on contextualizating jazz in issues of history, commerce, art, race, gender, and geography. Two semesters of traditional private instruction of permission from the Director of Jazz Studies is a prerequisite for private jazz instruction.
Instruction focuses on technique, theory, transcription, improvisation, and repertoire.
Private jazz instruction culminates at the end of the semester in a formal jazz jury performance with a rhythm section for members of the jazz faculty. Post-concert stargazing trips to PLU's Keck Observatory.