Jazz Studies at MichiganState University
As Michigan State University begins to discuss ways to reduce current and projected budget shortfalls, we have become aware of false rumors relating to the status of the Jazz Studies
Program within the College of Music. We want to assure our current jazz majors, their parents,
prospective jazz students, faculty, alumni, and friends that the undergraduate
and graduate degree programs in jazz at Michigan State University are continuing. The only
aspect of the jazz major to be discontinued is, regretfully, the jazz voice specialization.
It is a priority of the College of Music and Michigan State University to enable the undergraduate and
graduate degree programs in Jazz Studies to continue to grow in excellence and to flourish. We appreciate the excellent work that the faculty and students in Jazz Studies have accomplished
and look forward to our work together in the future.
We would be pleased to meet or speak with any interested individuals to further clarify any confusion
that may exist. Your help in dispelling inaccurate information about the status of the Jazz Studies program at Michigan State University would be appreciated.
James B. Forger, Dean,
College of Music
Rodney T. Whitaker,
Director, Jazz Studies
Program
East Lansing, MI