A person playing the saxophone.

Master of Music in ​Jazz Studies​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

The Aaron Copland School of Music offers conservatory-level training in classical performance, jazz performance, and jazz composition, leading to the Master of Music (MM) degree.

The MM in Jazz Studies includes private instruction, jazz ensembles, studies in jazz harmony, improvisation, arranging, recording techniques, and other courses suited to the needs of today’s jazz musician. Students may major in either jazz performance or jazz composition.

Electives are planned for the needs of the school music teacher or are drawn from other graduate music offerings. Concentrations in instrumental music, general music, jazz music education, composition pedagogy, and conducting are offered.

Admissions at a Glance
Fall Deadline July 1
Spring Deadline December 1
Extended Deadline None
Letters of Reference 3
Essay 500 Words
TOEFL (IBT) 79
IELTS 6
PTE 53
GRE No
GMAT No
Accepts Non-Matric Yes

Requirements for Matriculation

These requirements are in addition to the general requirements for matriculation.

  1. An undergraduate degree, not necessarily in jazz.
  2. For jazz performers, an audition on the major instrument or voice. Jazz auditions are held at the college throughout the academic year.
  3. Jazz composition applicants must submit scores and recordings of their work. These works must include compositions and arrangements for large (10 or more piece) ensembles.

Audition and additional requirements are listed below per degree program

  • Master of Music in Jazz Studies, Performance Major
    Audition dates for Jazz Performance Program are listed here, under MM in Jazz Performance. After submitting the Queens College online application, you can schedule your audition date by filling out the Audition Request Form – Jazz. Applicants who are not available for the audition dates may be considered by video or skype auditions, if there are still spaces available after the in-person auditions have been completed. If you have questions about how to apply, or audition, contact the ACSM Office at 718-997-3800 between 9:00 am and 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday.
  • Master of Music in Jazz Studies, Composition Major
    Applicants must submit scores and recordings of their work. These works must include compositions and arrangements for large (10- or more piece) ensembles. Send your material to:

                            Michael Mossman, Director of Jazz Studies
                            Aaron Copland School of Music, Queens College
                            65-30 Kissena Boulevard, Flushing NY, 11367

Applicants living overseas or at a considerable distance may send a recorded audition on CD or DVD. DVDs are preferred. Classical voice only: A live audition is required; no CDs or DVDs will be accepted.

Requirements for Non-Matriculation

Students are to follow the college’s requirements for non-matriculation​.