Music therapy offers a viable career option for persons interested in both human services and music. The jazz studies major experiences a teaching philosophy based on a broad view of jazz styles, world music, computer and electronic music and the avant-garde. Students receive a thorough exposure to the theory and history of music, and progress to specialized training in jazz styles and improvisation. The Hudson Valley and the College have become known as regional centers for live jazz. Renowned artists live and perform in the area and are frequent guests on the New Paltz campus.
Jazz studies majors often perform in recital hours and a wide variety of chamber music groups.
There is ample opportunity to play in musical theatre pit orchestras and in liver jazz clubs in the region. The jazz studies graduate continues in a career of performance, composition and arranging, frequently doing studio work. A weekly Tuesday Evening Concert Series featuring student ensembles, faculty recitals and guest artists provides the college community with performances throughout the fall and spring semesters. Majors are required to enroll in Concert Series Attendance for four semesters. During the summer, the Music in the Mountains Festival and the Institute for Advanced Piano Study attract international attention for adventurous programming and high-level performances.