Jazz
The primary aim of our Jazz Department is to create a stimulating and inspiring culture for jazz musicians. As well as nurturing individual development, we place a great deal of emphasis on artistic exchange between students and staff, both within the Conservatoire and on the wider public stage: from local venues to international festivals.
We offer a specialised BMus (Hons) Jazz course for undergraduates, a Graduate Diploma conversion course and a number of postgraduate jazz courses. The autonomy of the Department means you will follow a curriculum dedicated to jazz performance on a course specifically designed to meet your needs. Because we are able to offer such specialised study, you’ll find yourself learning alongside a body of jazz students who are all highly focused and committed.
We have an outstanding team of tutors, all of whom are highly respected artists in their field. The fact that they come not only from the UK, but also from the US and central Europe, gives a real breadth and depth to the range of jazz music represented here, as well as greater scope for you to find a suitable mentor to watch over your individual development.
Jazz Scene & Performance Opportunities
The jazz scene in the Birmingham area is flourishing. We have an exceptionally strong relationship with Birmingham Jazz, the region’s main promoter, and our students enjoy free entry to their gigs for a nominal Birmingham Jazz membership fee. During the last academic year alone, our students have attended performances through this scheme by internationally acclaimed artists such as Dave Holland’s quintet, Greg Cohen, Joey Baron and Tom Rainey.
In addition to the international circuit that Birmingham Jazz brings to the region, the city hosts numerous clubs and venues that support the local scene. Venues providing a platform for the wider jazz community include the Midlands Arts Centre (mac), Yardbird Jazz Club, The Rainbow, Symphony Hall Foyer, Fizzle, the Glee Club, The Drum, TL’s and the Jam House.
Another welcome addition to the scene is the BBC Big Band, soon to be resident at the newly refurbished Birmingham Town Hall. All this means you will be able to immerse yourself in a vibrant and energising music scene.
Our Jazz Orchestra and Big Band rehearse and gig regularly throughout the year. This might involve repertoire projects, such as Duke Ellington's Far East Suite, or concerts of new music with the composer as guest director, such as our recent project with Mike Gibbs.
Our External Engagements team keeps students busy outside of the college and we also help senior students gain a footing on the professional stage through special projects.