Zuyd University of Applied Sciences, BMus, Jazz Music

Jazz at Conservatorium Maastricht is jazz in the broadest sense of the word: classic jazz, bebop, hot, cool, swing, vocalese, mainstream and all jazz-related styles such as Afro-Cuban, Latin, funk, R&B, fusion and crossover pop.Jazz is improvisation in any form. Composing, arranging, making original music is an important part of the programme. 

The Bachelor’s programme in Jazz takes four years and consists of three parts: a core curriculum, a specialisation component and free space. Apart from the chosen main subject, the core curriculum of the first two years is the same for all students.

The first 2 years the core comprises performance, arrangement and composition assignments, band lessons, practical auditory & theory classes, basic repertoire and specific classes related to your main degree subject. You attend a comprehensive orientation programme to help select your specialization.

In year three, you choose a specialization and a decide how to use your free space (teaching modules). Your core curriculum (major) consists of your main subject as well as ensemble playing, ear training, piano lessons, music theory, arranging/composing, studio recording, music history, choir, entrepreneurship, and lessons specifically related to your main subject.

The free space is time used for your own projects, parallel to the main subject. These projects may be aimed at developing, recording & producing music, playing concerts & touring, PR activities, or other projects.

Band education Making music together - is at the core of the curriculum. Bands with a wide variety of styles rehearse on a weekly basis under the supervision of a member of teaching staff. During the special band project weeks, you will be coached by varying visiting lecturers for a week. Moreover, you can take part in the Big Band, the Jazz Choir and the Conservatorium Maastricht Jazz Ensemble (CMJE).

This programme provides students with knowledge and skills for becoming a creative, professional and versatile musician. A musician who will eventually make a career for him- or herself as an inspiring player, band leader, composer, arranger, teacher, producer, organizer and/or manager, on a national and international level.