Jazz & Contemporary Music
A Launchpad for the Modern Musician
UNC Asheville’s BFA in Jazz & Contemporary Music prepares you for the wide-ranging realities of a 21st-century musical career. Working alongside world-class faculty, you’ll build a strong foundation in theory, improvisation, composition, and ensemble performance while gaining practical experience through gigs, recording sessions, and community partnerships. Surrounded by Asheville’s thriving arts scene, you’ll refine your musicianship while charting your future in an evolving music industry.
Innovative Curriculum
The Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Jazz and Contemporary Music is designed for highly motivated students who plan to pursue professional careers immediately after graduation. The B.F.A. program differs from the B.A. program in its expanded curriculum requirements and higher standards regarding the development of professional skills and theoretical knowledge. The curriculum includes courses in theory and improvisation, American and World Music styles, music business and technology, and rotating ensemble opportunities, including Latin and Brazilian jazz ensembles, the Standards and Herbie Hancock ensembles, and larger groups like the Studio 018 Vocal Jazz and Afro Percussion ensembles.
Career Paths
The BFA degree, established in 2013, is a primary incubator for creative improvisation and performance in Western North Carolina. Students, faculty, and graduates perform consistently in all of the major regional venues, including Diana Wortham Theatre, The Orange Peel, The Grey Eagle, and many others. In addition to preparing students for performing careers, the program also prepares students for graduate programs or successful careers in other areas of the music industry.careers, the program also prepares students for graduate programs or successful careers in other areas of the music industry.
Music Performances
UNC Asheville’s BFA in Jazz and Contemporary Music puts performance at the heart of the student experience. From intimate combos to large ensembles, students gain extensive stage time in a variety of styles—straight-ahead jazz, funk, rock, Latin, and beyond. Regular performances on-campus and in the vibrant Asheville music scene allow students to gain professional experience while showcasing their artistry for enthusiastic audiences. With guidance from dedicated faculty who are experienced professional musicians, students develop a versatile musicianship that allows them to innovate and thrive in a variety of professional settings.
Hone Your Music Skills
The jazz studies and contemporary music program at UNC Asheville offers a dynamic music education blending tradition and contemporary trends with pedagogy and performance.
I originally looked into studying classical voice at other in-state institutions, and then realized that by going to UNCA I’d be able to study a wider array of genres outside of just classical music. I didn’t really listen to or play much jazz music at all before coming to college. However, studying jazz has really helped me in my other musical interests.
Music is Everywhere
UNC Asheville’s BFA in Jazz & Contemporary Music is where high- level artistry meets a thriving professional ecosystem. Here, you’ll refine your craft under the mentorship of world-class faculty while embedding yourself in Asheville’s legendary music scene. You won’t just study alongside innovative musicians from across the globe—you’ll build the network of collaborators that will define your career.
Grace Christian
Grace Christian (BFA ‘21) is a recording and touring artist based in Nashville. Grace is an accomplished songwriter, has a solo career under the name Grace Christian X, and is currently touring with the group Massie 99.
Juca Camera
Current BFA student pianist Juca Camera released his first solo album Contrails in 2025. The album is composed of all original material and was beautifully recorded by UNC Asheville Music Technology students.
Frank Meadows
Frank Meadows (BFA ‘14) is involved in multiple aspects of the music industry as the co-head of Dear Life Records and performing with the innovative alt-country group Fust (led by BS ‘14 Aaron Dowdy). Time ranked the band’s album Big Ugly at number 9 on its list of the Best Albums of 2025. Individual songs by Fust have also received accolades: NPR included “Spangled” among its “25 Best Songs of 2025” while The New York Times ranked “Jody” at number 20 on its list of the Best Songs of 2025.
Isaac Hadden
BFA grad Isaac Hadden (‘24) is one of the top up-and-coming guitarists on the jazz/jam scene. His cutting edge playing style and animated stage presence, combined with his passion and talent, have helped him build a supportive fanbase in the United States and abroad.
Frances Eliza
BFA grad Frances Eliza (BFA ‘22) is an active performer and recording artist, already with several releases to her name. Many of her tracks feature collaborations with UNCA BFA and Music Technology students.
William Hinson - Something Out Of Nothing Records
Alumni William Hinson started his own record label, Something Out Of Nothing Records, while still a student. His most recent album uses cheery, poppy music and a reassuring title.
Larkin - Touch Me
Alumni Larkin Farrar’s (BFA ‘15) EP Touch Me focuses on melancholy love songs.
Mama Danger
Folk-based string duo Mama Danger members Nick Cameron and Gabriela Rose met at UNC Asheville and released their first EP in 2018.
Porcelain Parrot
Read how four students across multiple disciplines came together to start the small gig band Porcelain Parrot.
Outside the Classroom
Outside the Classroom
Performances & Events
Experience a range of music at UNC Asheville through weekly and seasonal events. From classical recitals to contemporary performances, our Music Department hosts a wide array of events that celebrate musical diversity and talent. Events include Live at Lunch, UNCA Loves Piano Series, faculty showcase concerts, and Asheville Singers performances, as well as a number of ensemble concerts.
Events Schedule Coming Soon
Meet the Faculty
Meet the Faculty
As active musicians dedicated to nurturing student success, our music faculty enriches Asheville’s thriving music scene and the cultural life of our campus. Students benefit from small class sizes that encourage collaboration and mentorship between professors and students and students and their peers.
Related Programs
Ready for What's Next?
UNC Asheville’s jazz and contemporary music combines holistic music education in theory and history with ensemble and solo performances.