Jazz Studies (Performance)
- Bachelor of Music
- Master of Music
USF Jazz Studies is known internationally for its stellar faculty, accomplished graduates and outstanding student ensembles and composers. Bachelor's and Master's Degrees in Jazz Studies offer the aspiring artist a strong background in jazz theory, improvisation, arranging/composition, and history. In addition, the music educator and others seeking further exposure to jazz will find ample opportunity to participate in ensembles and classes.
Jazz Ensembles
USF Jazztet
The USF Jazztet, our premier small group is frequently featured in concerts on campus, recordings and touring. This outstanding group has performed at IAJE conferences, as well as jazz festivals and with many outstanding guest artists. Highlights include performances with Paquito D'Rivera at the Clearwater Jazz Festival, performances at the Umbia Jazz Festival in Perugia, Italy and a concert tour of South Africa, including a feature spot at the International Society for Music Education World Conference in Pretoria.
USF Jazz Ensemble
USF Jazz offers both large and small ensemble experiences. It is our belief that to become a well rounded jazz musician, both large ensemble and small group experiences are needed to develop the skills required. Small group experiences emphasize improvisation and interaction skill development, rhythm section techniques, and ear training/memorization of tunes. Jazz Ensemble (big band) experience includes these skills along with reading, stylistic development, ensemble techniques and doubling on secondary instruments. Our students are usually involved in both small and large ensembles each semester during their degree program.
Jazz Studies Faculty
Pablo Arencibia, Professor of Jazz Piano
Phone: (813) 974-2311 | pablo6@usf.edu
Tom Brantley, Professor of Trombone, Jazz Ensemble Director
Phone: (813) 974-2311 | brantley@usf.edu
Jay Coble, Professor of Trumpet
Phone: (813) 974-2311 | jcoble@usf.edu
Mark Neuenschwander, Jazz Bass
Phone: (813) 974-2311 | neuensch@usf.edu
LaRue Nickelson, Jazz Guitar
Phone: (813) 974-2311 | lnickels@mail.usf.edu
James Suggs, Jazz Trumpet
Phone: (352) 573-0676 | jlsuggs@usf.edu
Jack Wilkins, Director of Jazz Studies/Saxophone
Phone: (813) 974-2311 | wilkins@usf.edu