Jazz & Contemporary Music
A Dynamic Music Education
In our Bachelor of Fine Arts in Jazz and Contemporary Music program, explore music that shaped and continues to shape the genre. Dynamic by nature and grounded in both theory and practice, you learn through an engaging blend of courses, expert faculty, and numerous performance opportunities. Immerse yourself in Asheville’s vibrant culture and find your unique voice in our program.
Embrace Innovation
At UNC Asheville, experience an exciting contemporary music degree program that's not just about jazz studies but also the broader spectrum of contemporary music from composers and performers of diverse backgrounds. Designed for students motivated to chart their own musical journey, our jazz and contemporary music major combines the rich traditions of jazz with contemporary music trends, providing a holistic music education. Courses cover the foundations of music theory, aural skills, applied music, studio musicianship, ethnomusicology, and music history.
Career Paths
Many graduates of UNC Asheville’s jazz and contemporary music program have landed dream jobs working with top artists, such as R.E.M. and Alison Krauss. The versatile nature of the degree means boundless possibilities for performing and collaborating with musical groups of all genres. Some students pursue graduate study to further hone their instrumental skills and widen their performance repertoire or open the door to a career in academia.
Music Performances
UNC Asheville’s BFA in Jazz and Contemporary Music puts performance at the heart of the student experience. From intimate combos and vocal ensembles to large jazz orchestras, 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 connect students with professional opportunities while showcasing their artistry to real audiences. With guidance from experienced faculty and visiting artists, the program cultivates versatile musicians who are ready to innovate and thrive in today’s ever-evolving music industry.
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
At UNC Asheville, explore the many connections and interactions between music and all facets of human life through classroom and performance experiences. Alumni have gone on to become composers, performers, educators, audio engineers, and sound designers, with some landing roles in top companies or collaborating with renowned artists like R.E.M. and Alison Krauss.
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 Dodgen's 2020 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.