Jazz/Commercial Performance Concentration

View degree requirements in the Undergraduate Catalog.

With a focus on jazz/commercial performance, instrumentalists and vocalists are equipped with the tools and skills that allow them to develop a greater degree of flexibility and professionalism along with personal experiences with the creative process. Our dedicated faculty include regionally and internationally recognized jazz artists. You will have opportunities to perform with Towson’s jazz orchestra (founded by the late Hank Levy), the pop ensemble, the Latin ensemble, jazz guitar ensemble, vocal jazz ensemble, the free improvisation ensemble, and the jazz combos.

Course offerings cover such topics as the music industry, ethics, and recording techniques. Towson’s recording studio provides opportunities to create and perform for recording projects in a professional environment. A separate application and performance audition are required for admission to the concentration. 

Guest artists visit the program to offer concerts and workshops to our students as well as members of the community. Each semester, the Bill and Helen Murray Jazz Residency program brings internationally recognized artists to our campus who coach and perform with Towson students. The Towson University Jazz Festival is an annual event that provides an opportunity for high school ensembles to work with guest artists and Towson Jazz/Commercial faculty.

The Jazz/Commercial music program encourages interaction with other artists, programs of the university, and the Greater Baltimore community providing students opportunity to engage and participate in the region’s vibrant culture.

Visiting Artists

The Bill and Helen Murray Jazz Residency program brings internationally recognized artists to campus to coach and perform with students. Towson’s Jazz Festival is an annual event that allows high school ensembles to work with guest artists and Towson faculty.