Hayes School of Music

According to the Harvard Concise Dictionary of Music (Randel, 1978) jazz is a "kind of music that emerged in the southern United States, particularly in the city of New Orleans, around the end of the 19th century. The term itself . . . gained currency around 1915 and has since been applied to diverse and continually changing styles. Throughout the history of jazz, its tonal language has been essentially that of Western Europe combined with characteristic inflections of pitch. Other characteristics are study though often syncopated rhythm . . . improvisation . . . and effects of intonation and timbre different from those employed in the traditional Western concert music."  

Jazz, the first truly American art form, is a very important part of our cultural heritage and has the potential of playing a significant role in the music education process. With this in mind, the School of Music at Appalachian has established the Jazz Certification Program. Admission to this program is available to all students of the University upon the recommendation of the Director of Jazz Studies.

Jazz Certificate Program

The Hayes School of Music has established a Jazz Certification Program that is available to all students of the University upon the recommendation of the Director of Jazz Studies. The purposes of the program are to identify students with a special interest in jazz, promote high standards of jazz performance, provide a structured sequence in the field of jazz, provide a vehicle for the proper advising with this interest, and to expand the circle of students who have meaningful experiences with jazz during their college careers.

The student must complete an application form (available from the Director of Jazz Studies). The completed form must be returned to the Office of the Dean of Music. Upon completion of the program, the student will receive a Jazz Certificate indicating competence in this area of study. Jazz Certificates will be awarded during the annual Honors Seminar.