{"id":2912,"date":"2015-11-19T21:02:37","date_gmt":"2015-11-19T20:02:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/blog\/?p=2912"},"modified":"2020-03-15T15:30:59","modified_gmt":"2020-03-15T14:30:59","slug":"top-25-jazz-guitar-schools","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/blog\/top-25-jazz-guitar-schools\/","title":{"rendered":"Top 25 US Jazz Guitar Schools"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-size: 18px; line-height: 160%; font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;\">Choosing the right university program to study at can be one of the biggest decisions you&#8217;ll make as a jazz guitarist. With literally hundreds of programs to choose from, finding the right jazz guitar school for you can be a tough decision.\u00a0That&#8217;s where this guide will help.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>These 25 jazz guitar schools are the top programs in the US, with each offering different approaches to teaching and studying jazz guitar at the collegiate level.<\/p>\n<p>While each program offers its own approach to teaching, one thing that they all share in common is that they provide world-class educations for each of their jazz guitar majors.<\/p>\n<p>The jazz guitar schools on this list are presented in no particular order, as they all rank highly, and all offer something depending on what you&#8217;re looking for as a student.<\/p>\n<p>Some programs feature large student bodies, others have a smaller number of students.<\/p>\n<p>Some of these programs are in big cities, while others are in smaller communities.<\/p>\n<p>No matter what you&#8217;re looking for in a program, big, small, in a metropolitan area or in a smaller city, these 25 jazz guitar schools are the best place to begin your search for a program.<\/p>\n<p><i><strong>Note:<\/strong><\/i> This list is meant to introduce you to these schools, and is not meant as an endorsement of one or any of these particular programs.<\/p>\n<p>Click here to follow the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/forum\/jazzguitar-lessons\/47563-top-jazz-guitar-schools.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Top Jazz Guitar Schools discussion on our forum&#8230;<\/a><\/p>\n<span style=\"--tl-form-height-m:555.828px;--tl-form-height-t:361.672px;--tl-form-height-d:361.672px;\" class=\"tl-placeholder-f-type-shortcode_10980 tl-preload-form\"><span><\/span><\/span>\n<h2>1. Berklee College of Music<\/h2>\n<p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/images\/blog\/colleges\/berklee-college-of-music.jpg\" alt=\"Berklee College Of Music\" width=\"720\" height=\"260\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Website<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.berklee.edu\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">www.berklee.edu<\/a><br \/>\n<strong>Location<\/strong>: Boston, MA 02215<br \/>\n<strong>Tuition (2015)<\/strong>: <strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$37,800<\/span><\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Acceptance Rate<\/strong>: 35%<br \/>\n<strong>Degrees<\/strong>: Bachelor<br \/>\n<strong>Guitar Teachers<\/strong>: Mick Goodrick, Sheryl Bailey, Tim Miller, &#8230;<br \/>\n<strong>Alumni<\/strong>: Pat Metheny (Teacher), John Abercrombie, Emily Remler, Kurt Rosenwinkel, &#8230;<\/p>\n<p>Berklee is the most recognizable name in jazz guitar education, and for good reason. Founded in 1945, Berklee has consistently produced some of the biggest names in jazz guitar since it first opened its doors. With an alumni list that features John Abercrombie, Emily Remler, and Kurt Rosenwinkel, to name but a few former students, Berklee is often at the top of the list when applying for Jazz guitar colleges.<\/p>\n<h2>2. University of Southern California (USC)<\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/images\/blog\/colleges\/usc.jpg\" alt=\"University of Southern California\" width=\"720\" height=\"260\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Website<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/music.usc.edu\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">music.usc.edu<\/a><br \/>\n<strong>Location<\/strong>: Los Angeles, CA 90089-0851<br \/>\n<strong>Tuition (2015)<\/strong>: <strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$50,210<br \/>\n<\/span><\/strong><strong>Acceptance Rate<\/strong>: 19.80%<br \/>\n<strong>Degrees<\/strong>: Bachelor, Master, Doctorate<br \/>\n<strong>Guitar Teachers<\/strong>: Frank Potenza, Bruce Forman, Pat Kelley, &#8230;<br \/>\n<strong>Alumni<\/strong>: Lee Ritenour, Paul Jackson Jr., Larry Koonse, &#8230;<\/p>\n<p>Featuring both a traditional jazz degree, and a studio jazz guitar degree, USC has quickly set itself apart as a first choice jazz guitar college. By providing students with a dedicated Jazz guitar degree, USC has shown a commitment to giving their students a world class Jazz guitar education and experience. Alumni have gone on to perform with Michael Buble, Ray Charles, Lee Ritenour, and more.<\/p>\n<h2>3. University of Miami (Frost School of Music)<\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/images\/blog\/colleges\/frost-school-of-music.jpg\" alt=\"University of Miami\" width=\"720\" height=\"260\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Website<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/jazz.frost.miami.edu\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">https:\/\/jazz.frost.miami.edu\/<\/a><br \/>\n<strong>Location<\/strong>: Coral Gables, FL 33124-7610<br \/>\n<strong>Tuition (2015)<\/strong>: <strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$41,580<\/span><\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Acceptance Rate<\/strong>: 40,40%<br \/>\n<strong>Degrees<\/strong>: Bachelor, Master, Doctorate<br \/>\n<strong>Guitar Teacher<\/strong>: John Hart<br \/>\n<strong>Alumni<\/strong>: Pat Metheny, Bruce Hornsby, Randy Johnston, Raul Midon, &#8230;<\/p>\n<p>One of the first schools to offer a jazz degree, the Frost School of Music now boasts one of the most esteemed jazz programs in the US. As well as offering undergrad and graduate degrees in jazz studies, the school is also the home to the Henry Mancini Institute and the Bruce Hornsby Creative American Music Program. Alumni include Bruce Hornsby, Randy Johnston, Pat Metheny, and Raul Midon.<\/p>\n<h2>4. New York University (NYU Steinhardt)<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/images\/blog\/colleges\/new-york-university.jpg\" alt=\"New York University\" width=\"720\" height=\"237\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Website<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/steinhardt.nyu.edu\/music\/jazz\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">steinhardt.nyu.edu\/music\/jazz<\/a><br \/>\n<strong>Location<\/strong>: New York, NY 10003<br \/>\n<strong>Tuition (2015)<\/strong>: <strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$47,750<\/span><\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Acceptance Rate<\/strong>: 26%<br \/>\n<strong>Degrees<\/strong>: Bachelor, Master, Doctorate<br \/>\n<strong>Guitar Teachers<\/strong>: Wayne Krantz, John Scofield, Peter Bernstein, &#8230;<br \/>\n<strong>Alumni<\/strong>: Wayne Shorter, &#8230;<\/p>\n<p>Located in the heart of the jazz world, NYU\u2019s students experience not only a world-class education, but also life in Greenwich Village and New York\u2019s thriving jazz scene. With a teaching list that reads as a who\u2019s who in the jazz guitar world, alumni include Wayne Shorter, Brad Shepik, Ron Blake, Todd Coolman, and many more top names on today\u2019s jazz scene.<\/p>\n<h2>5. New School for Jazz and Contemporary Arts<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/images\/blog\/colleges\/new-school.jpg\" alt=\"New School for Jazz and Contemporary Arts\" width=\"720\" height=\"260\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Website<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/newschool.edu\/jazz\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">newschool.edu\/jazz\/<\/a><br \/>\n<strong>Location<\/strong>: New York, NY 10011<br \/>\n<strong>Tuition (2015)<\/strong>: <strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$32,860<\/span><\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Acceptance Rate<\/strong>: 65.90%<br \/>\n<strong>Degrees<\/strong>: Bachelor<br \/>\n<strong>Guitar Teachers<\/strong>: Steve Cardenas, Vic Juris, &#8230;<br \/>\n<strong>Alumni<\/strong>: Peter Bernstein, Larry Goldings, Avashi Cohen, Alex Skolnick, &#8230;<\/p>\n<p>By focusing on the concept of teacher as mentor, and providing students with access to the world\u2019s best jazz musicians, the New School is often a first choice college for young jazz guitarists. Located at the center of the world\u2019s best jazz scene, students get to experience life in New York as well as a top-notch education while studying at the New School. Alumni include Peter Bernstein, Larry Goldings, Avashi Cohen, and Alex Skolnick.<\/p>\n<h2>6. Purchase College (State University of New York aka SUNY)<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/images\/blog\/colleges\/purchase-college.jpg\" alt=\"Purchase College\" width=\"720\" height=\"260\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Website<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.purchase.edu\/academics\/jazz-studies\/index.php\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">www.purchase.edu\/academics\/jazz-studies\/index.php<\/a><br \/>\n<strong>Location<\/strong>: New York, NY 10577<br \/>\n<strong>Tuition (2015)<\/strong>: <strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$6500<\/span>\u00a0<\/strong>(In State Undergrad)<strong> \/ <span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$22000<\/span>\u00a0<\/strong>(Out of State Graduate)<br \/>\n<strong>Acceptance Rate<\/strong>: 40%<br \/>\n<strong>Degrees<\/strong>: Bachelor, Master, Performers Certificate, Artist Diploma<br \/>\n<strong>Guitar Teacher<\/strong>:\u00a0Vic Juris, John Abercrombie, Doug Munro<br \/>\n<strong>Alumni<\/strong>: Peter Bernstein, Larry Goldings, Avashi Cohen, Alex Skolnick, &#8230;<\/p>\n<p>If you want to experience the New York jazz scene, but not live directly in the city, then Purchase College offers the chance to study with legendary players a short hop from the heart of the jazz world. With a focus on performance and small class size, students at Purchase receive a rigorous education in a small-town atmosphere.<\/p>\n<h2>7. University of North Texas (UNT College of Music)<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/images\/blog\/colleges\/university-of-north-texas.jpg\" alt=\"University of North Texas\" width=\"720\" height=\"260\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Website<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/jazz.unt.edu\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">jazz.unt.edu<\/a><br \/>\n<strong>Location<\/strong>: Denton, TX 76203-5017<br \/>\n<strong>Tuition (2015)<\/strong>: <strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$8,745<\/span> <\/strong>(average)<br \/>\n<strong>Acceptance Rate<\/strong>: 61%<br \/>\n<strong>Degrees<\/strong>: Bachelor, Master, Doctorate<br \/>\n<strong>Guitar Teacher<\/strong>: Fred Hamilton<br \/>\n<strong>Alumni<\/strong>: Tim Miller, Bruce Saunders, Jim Snidero, &#8230;<\/p>\n<p>There are few schools that share the reputation as that of North Texas. With a long history of producing some of the nation\u2019s top jazz musicians, the words North Texas are synonymous with excellence in jazz education. With a lower tuition rate compared to many of their peers, North Texas boasts a world-class program at an affordable cost to students. Alumni include Tim Miller, Bruce Saunders, Jim Snidero, and more.<\/p>\n<h2>8. Northern Illinois University (NIU School of Music)<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/images\/blog\/colleges\/northern-illinois-university.jpg\" alt=\"Northern Illinois University\" width=\"720\" height=\"260\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Website<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.niu.edu\/music\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">www.niu.edu\/music<\/a><br \/>\n<strong>Location<\/strong>: DeKalb, Illinois 60115<br \/>\n<strong>Tuition (2015)<\/strong>: <strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$14,426<\/span> <\/strong>(In State)<strong> \/ <span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$23,891<\/span> <\/strong>(Out of State)<br \/>\n<strong>Acceptance Rate<\/strong>: 50,90%<br \/>\n<strong>Degrees<\/strong>: Bachelor, Master<br \/>\n<strong>Guitar Teacher<\/strong>: Fareed Haque<\/p>\n<p>Located a stone\u2019s throw from Chicago and it\u2019s legendary jazz scene, Northern Illinois offers students the chance to study one-on-one with one of the countries top guitarist, Fareed Haque. With a jazz graduate program that has been ranked in the top-10 in the country, NIU provides undergraduate and graduate students with a top education at an affordable price range compared to many of its competitors.<\/p>\n<h2>9. University of Colorado Denver (UC Denver)<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/images\/blog\/colleges\/university-of-colorado-denver.jpg\" alt=\"University of Colorado Denver\" width=\"720\" height=\"223\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Website<\/strong>: <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ucdenver.edu\/academics\/colleges\/CAM\/academics\/programs\/meis\/Pages\/guitarauditioninformation.aspx\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">http:\/\/www.ucdenver.edu\/academics\/colleges\/CAM\/academics\/programs\/meis\/Pages\/guitarauditioninformation.aspx<\/a><br \/>\n<strong>Location<\/strong>: Denver, CO 80217-3364<br \/>\n<strong>Tuition (2015)<\/strong>: <strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$10,404<\/span> <\/strong>(In State)<strong> \/ <span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$29,334<\/span> <\/strong>(Out of State)<br \/>\n<strong>Acceptance Rate<\/strong>: 73%<br \/>\n<strong>Degrees<\/strong>: Bachelor<br \/>\n<strong>Guitar Teachers<\/strong>: Sean McGowan, Paul Musso, Bill Kopper, &#8230;<\/p>\n<p>For guitarists that want to receive a well-rounded guitar education in one of America\u2019s top cities, then Colorado at Denver is a very viable option. With a strong guitar department, featuring jazz, classical, and world-music teachers, students receive a versatile education that prepares them for the many facets of life as a modern guitarist.<\/p>\n<h2>10. California Jazz Conservatory<\/h2>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/12272778_1639191199634771_1289471620_n.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-2950 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/12272778_1639191199634771_1289471620_n.jpg\" alt=\"California Jazz Conservatory\" width=\"504\" height=\"304\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/12272778_1639191199634771_1289471620_n.jpg 504w, https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/12272778_1639191199634771_1289471620_n-300x181.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 504px) 100vw, 504px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Website<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cjc.edu\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">www.cjc.edu<\/a><br \/>\n<strong>Location<\/strong>: Berkeley, CA 94703<br \/>\n<strong>Tuition<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/cjc.edu\/baccalaureate-program\/general-information\/tuition-supplemental-fees\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">cjc.edu\/baccalaureate-program\/general-information\/tuition-supplemental-fees\/<\/a><br \/>\n<strong>Acceptance Rate<\/strong>: 73%<br \/>\n<strong>Degrees<\/strong>: Bachelor<br \/>\n<strong>Guitar Teacher<\/strong>: Mimi Fox<\/p>\n<p>The new kid on the block, the California Jazz Conservatory is the nation\u2019s only independent conservatory devoted solely to jazz performance and related musical styles. With a student teacher ration of 6 to 1, CJC students receive a personalized and attention focused degree in one of the nation\u2019s top cities. Ensembles include the Miles Davis\/Wayne Shorter ensemble, Brazilian ensemble, gypsy jazz ensemble, and more.<\/p>\n<h2>11. New England Conservatory (NEC)<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/images\/blog\/colleges\/new-england-conservatory.jpg\" alt=\"New England Conservatory\" width=\"720\" height=\"260\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Website<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.necmusic.edu\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">www.necmusic.edu<\/a><br \/>\n<strong>Location<\/strong>: Boston, MA 02115<br \/>\n<strong>Tuition (2015)<\/strong>: <strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$42,600<\/span><\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Acceptance Rate<\/strong>: 28%<br \/>\n<strong>Degrees<\/strong>: Bachelor, Master, Doctorate<br \/>\n<strong>Guitar Teacher<\/strong>: Brad Shepik<br \/>\n<strong>Alumni<\/strong>: Don Byron, John Medeski, Fred Hersch and Luciana Souza<\/p>\n<p>One of the top music programs in the world, jazz or otherwise, NEC focuses on improvisation, building an original voice, group interaction, and small groups study in their curriculum. With an open-minded approach to jazz education, NEC students are encouraged to explore their own personality and musical voice during their education. Alumni include Don Byron, John Medeski, Fred Hersch, and Luciana Souza.<\/p>\n<h2>12. Eastman School of Music<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/images\/blog\/colleges\/eastman-school-of-music.jpg\" alt=\"Eastman School of Music\" width=\"720\" height=\"260\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Website<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.esm.rochester.edu\/jazz\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">www.esm.rochester.edu\/jazz\/<\/a><br \/>\n<strong>Location<\/strong>: Rochester, NY 14604<br \/>\n<strong>Tuition (2015)<\/strong>: <strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$44,580<\/span><\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Acceptance Rate<\/strong>: 36%<br \/>\n<strong>Degrees<\/strong>: Bachelor, Master, Doctorate<br \/>\n<strong>Guitar Teacher<\/strong>: Bob Sneider<br \/>\n<strong>Alumni<\/strong>: Ron Carter, Maria Schneider, Jeff Beal<\/p>\n<p>At the Eastman School of Music, applications will select either a performance or writing emphasis as they undertake their jazz studies at one of the nation\u2019s top conservatoires. By maintaining a core residential faculty, and augmenting it with world-class guest artists, students will be able to work closely with their regular teachers and learn from the biggest names in the business during artist residencies. Alumni include Ron Carter, Maria Schneider, and Jeff Beal.<\/p>\n<h2>13. UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/images\/blog\/colleges\/ucla.jpg\" alt=\"UCLA\" width=\"720\" height=\"260\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Website<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.schoolofmusic.ucla.edu\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">www.schoolofmusic.ucla.edu<\/a><br \/>\n<strong>Location<\/strong>: Los Angeles, CA 90095-1616<br \/>\n<strong>Tuition (2015)<\/strong>: <strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$15,000<\/span> <\/strong>(In State)<strong> \/ <span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$39,000<\/span> <\/strong>(Out of State)<br \/>\n<strong>Acceptance Rate<\/strong>: 20%<br \/>\n<strong>Degrees<\/strong>: Bachelor<br \/>\n<strong>Guitar Teachers<\/strong>: Kenny Burrell, Wolf Marshall<\/p>\n<p>At UCLA, students study a B.A. in ethnomusicology with a jazz studies concentration. While the degree is different from those offered by their peers, UCLA gives students the chance to work with the biggest name in Jazz guitar education, Kenny Burrell. Students are also able to study with one of the most legendary guitar authors and transcribers, Wolf Marshall, as they study the history, theory, and performance aspects of their degrees.<\/p>\n<h2>14. The Juilliard School<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/images\/blog\/colleges\/juilliard.jpg\" alt=\"Juilliard\" width=\"720\" height=\"260\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Website<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.juilliard.edu\/music\/jazz-studies\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">www.juilliard.edu<\/a><br \/>\n<strong>Location<\/strong>: New York, NY 10023<br \/>\n<strong>Tuition (2015)<\/strong>: <strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$32,180<\/span><\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Acceptance Rate<\/strong>: 6.7%<br \/>\n<strong>Degrees<\/strong>: Bachelor, Master<br \/>\n<strong>Guitar Teacher<\/strong>: Rodney Jones<br \/>\n<strong>Alumni<\/strong>: Wynton Marsalis, Miles Davis, Christian McBride, Lage Lund, &#8230;<\/p>\n<p>With only 27 students, the Juilliard Jazz department maintains the highest standards as set by the rest of the world-famous New York school. Though it\u2019s very difficult to get in, Juilliard students who pass the rigorous audition process will receive one of the best music educational experiences the world has to offer. With a focus on performance and touring, the program is designed to give students real-world experiences as they master their jazz skills along the way. Alumni include Wynton Marsalis, Miles Davis, Christian McBride, and Lage Lund.<\/p>\n<h2>15. Manhattan School of Music<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/images\/blog\/colleges\/manhattan-school-of-music.jpg\" alt=\"Manhattan School of Music\" width=\"720\" height=\"260\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Website<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.msmnyc.edu\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">www.msmnyc.edu<\/a><br \/>\n<strong>Location<\/strong>: New York, NY 10027-4698<br \/>\n<strong>Tuition (2015)<\/strong>: <strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$42,000<\/span><\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Acceptance Rate<\/strong>: 34,30%<br \/>\n<strong>Degrees<\/strong>: Bachelor, Master, Doctorate<br \/>\n<strong>Guitar Teachers<\/strong>: Rodney Jones, Jack Wilkins<br \/>\n<strong>Alumni<\/strong>: Chris Potter, Miguel Zenon, Stefon Harris, Jason Moran, &#8230;<\/p>\n<p>One of the many first-class Jazz programs in New York City, the Manhattan School of Music gives students the chance to develop their abilities as performers, composers, arrangers and jazz educators during their time studying at the conservatory. With a wide-range of performance ensembles to choose from, and a top-notch faculty to study with, MSM has long been a first choice school for the nation\u2019s top young jazz guitarists. Alumni include Chris Potter, Miguel Zenon, Stefon Harris, and Jason Moran.<\/p>\n<h2>16. University of Texas at Austin<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/images\/blog\/colleges\/university-of-texas.jpg\" alt=\"University of Texas at Austin\" width=\"720\" height=\"260\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Website<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.music.utexas.edu\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">www.music.utexas.edu<\/a><br \/>\n<strong>Location<\/strong>: Austin, TX 78712-1555<br \/>\n<strong>Tuition (2015)<\/strong>: <strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$22,000<\/span> <\/strong>(In State)<strong> \/ <span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$46,000<\/span> <\/strong>(Out of State)<br \/>\n<strong>Acceptance Rate<\/strong>: 40.20%<br \/>\n<strong>Degrees<\/strong>: Bachelor, Master, Doctorate<br \/>\n<strong>Guitar Teacher<\/strong>: Bruce Saunders<\/p>\n<p>Though not as famous as its cross-state rivals UNT, Texas at Austin aka (Sarah and Ernest Butler School of Music) has been building a program in recent years that has lifted it out of the shadow of the UNT jazz giant down the road. With undergrad, graduate, and doctorate degrees, as well as a small number of students and excellent faculty, Austin has quickly become one of the top jazz and jazz guitar schools in the nation.<\/p>\n<h2>17. Depaul University<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/images\/blog\/colleges\/depaul-university.jpg\" alt=\"Depaul University\" width=\"720\" height=\"260\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Website<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/music.depaul.edu\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">music.depaul.edu<\/a><br \/>\n<strong>Location<\/strong>: Chicago, IL 60614<br \/>\n<strong>Tuition (2015)<\/strong>: <strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$38,600<\/span><\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Acceptance Rate<\/strong>: 69,60%<br \/>\n<strong>Degrees<\/strong>: Bachelor, Master<br \/>\n<strong>Guitar Teacher<\/strong>: Bob Palmieri<\/p>\n<p>Located in one of the nation\u2019s most celebrated jazz scenes, DePaul gives students the chance to study with a top-level faculty and experience life on the Windy City\u2019s jazz scene at the same time. With a well-rounded jazz curriculum, including courses in performance, lessons, theory, history, and improvisation, DePaul produces students that are ready to tackle life as a modern jazz musician.<\/p>\n<h2>18. Oberlin Conservatory of Music<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/images\/blog\/colleges\/oberlin-conservatory-of-music.jpg\" alt=\"Oberlin Conservatory of Music\" width=\"720\" height=\"260\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Website<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/new.oberlin.edu\/conservatory\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">new.oberlin.edu\/conservatory\/<\/a><br \/>\n<strong>Location<\/strong>: Oberlin, OH 44074<br \/>\n<strong>Tuition (2015)<\/strong>: <strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$59,474<\/span><\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Acceptance Rate<\/strong>: 30%<br \/>\n<strong>Degrees<\/strong>: Bachelor<br \/>\n<strong>Guitar Teacher<\/strong>: Bobby Ferrazza<\/p>\n<p>Being America\u2019s oldest continuously running conservatory, Oberlin may not have the location that its peers in New York or Boston do, but its high-level of education and academic rigor make it a standout school on the collegiate jazz scene. Providing students a mixture of residential and visiting professors, Oberlin provides undergraduate students the chance to learn from a world-class faculty of jazz educators.<\/p>\n<h2>19. California Institute of the Arts (Cal Arts)<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/images\/blog\/colleges\/cal-arts.jpg\" alt=\"California Institute of the Arts\" width=\"720\" height=\"260\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Website<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.calarts.edu\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">www.calarts.edu\/<\/a><br \/>\n<strong>Location<\/strong>: Valencia, CA 91355<br \/>\n<strong>Tuition (2015)<\/strong>: <strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$41,700<\/span><\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Acceptance Rate<\/strong>: 27.70%<br \/>\n<strong>Degrees<\/strong>: Bachelor, Master<br \/>\n<strong>Guitar Teacher<\/strong>: Larry Koonse<br \/>\n<strong>Alumni<\/strong>: Ralph Alessi, Scott Colley, Ravi Coltrane, &#8230;<\/p>\n<p>Founded by the late jazz bass legend Charlie Haden, Cal Arts is widely known as one of the top jazz and improvisational volleges on the West Coast. With a focus on modern jazz, as well as grounded students in the jazz tradition, Cal Arts is a first-choice College for players looking to explore their individual voice in a jazz and modern improvisational context. Alumni include Ralph Alessi, Scott Colley, and Ravi Coltrane.<\/p>\n<h2>20. University of Louisville (Jamey Aebersold Jazz Studies Program)<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/images\/blog\/colleges\/university-of-louisville.jpg\" alt=\"University of Louisville\" width=\"720\" height=\"260\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Website<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.louisville.edu\/music\/jazz\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">www.louisville.edu\/music\/jazz<\/a><br \/>\n<strong>Location<\/strong>: Louisville, Kentucky 40292<br \/>\n<strong>Tuition (2015)<\/strong>: <strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$10,500<\/span> <\/strong>(In State)<strong> \/ <span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$24,800<\/span> <\/strong>(Out of State)<br \/>\n<strong>Acceptance Rate<\/strong>: 71,90%<br \/>\n<strong>Degrees<\/strong>: Bachelor, Master<br \/>\n<strong>Guitar Teacher<\/strong>: Craig Wagner<\/p>\n<p>Named after one of jazz education\u2019s most well loved teachers, the Jamey Aebersold Jazz Studies Program is one of the nation\u2019s top destinations for undergraduate and graduate level jazz students. Though he\u2019s not as well known as some of his coastal peers, guitarist Craig Wagner is one of the top players and teachers in collegiate education today. Students looking for a top-level education outside of a big East Coast city will do well to explore Louisville\u2019s jazz program.<\/p>\n<h2>21. Bowling Green State University<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/images\/blog\/colleges\/bowling-green-state-university.jpg\" alt=\"Bowling Green State University\" width=\"720\" height=\"260\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Website<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bgsu.edu\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">www.bgsu.edu<\/a><br \/>\n<strong>Location<\/strong>: Ohio 43403-0001<br \/>\n<strong>Tuition (2015)<\/strong>: <strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$10,600<\/span> <\/strong>(In State)<strong> \/ <span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$17,900<\/span> <\/strong>(Out of State)<br \/>\n<strong>Acceptance Rate<\/strong>: 53,40%<br \/>\n<strong>Degrees<\/strong>: Bachelor, Master<br \/>\n<strong>Guitar Teacher<\/strong>: Chris Buzzelli (retired), Ariel Kasler<\/p>\n<p>Though it may not have the big name that some of the other schools on this list do, BGSU features a strong jazz guitar program and, until 2015, one of the country\u2019s top jazz guitar teachers in Chris Buzzelli. If you\u2019re looking for a solid jazz education, but don\u2019t want to live in a big city, then BGSU might just be the school you\u2019re looking for.<\/p>\n<h2>22. Peabody Conservatory<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/images\/blog\/colleges\/peabody-conservatory.jpg\" alt=\"Peabody Conservatory\" width=\"720\" height=\"260\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Website<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/peabody.jhu.edu\/conservatory\/jazz\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">peabody.jhu.edu\/conservatory\/jazz\/<\/a><br \/>\n<strong>Location<\/strong>: Baltimore, MD 21202<br \/>\n<strong>Tuition (2015)<\/strong>: <strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$42,630<\/span><\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Acceptance Rate<\/strong>: 52%<br \/>\n<strong>Degrees<\/strong>: Bachelor<br \/>\n<strong>Guitar Teacher<\/strong>: Paul Bollenback<\/p>\n<p>A part of one of the nation\u2019s top Universities, John Hopkins, Peabody provides students the chance to study with world-class teachers outside of the large, more expensive cities. With a small, selective program, Peabody holds only 18 jazz students, giving players the chance to work closely with their peers and professors as they receive their jazz education.<\/p>\n<h2>23. Utah State University<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/images\/blog\/colleges\/utah-state-university.jpg\" alt=\"Utah State University\" width=\"720\" height=\"260\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Website<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/music.usu.edu\/area-of-study\/grad-guitar\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">https:\/\/music.usu.edu\/area-of-study\/grad-guitar<\/a><br \/>\n<strong>Location<\/strong>: Logan, UT 84322<br \/>\n<strong>Tuition (2015)<\/strong>: <strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$5450<\/span> <\/strong>(In State)<strong> \/ <span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$17,560<\/span> <\/strong>(Out of State)<br \/>\n<strong>Acceptance Rate<\/strong>: 97.80%<br \/>\n<strong>Degrees<\/strong>: Bachelor, Master<br \/>\n<strong>Guitar Teacher<\/strong>: Corey Christiansen<\/p>\n<p>While you might not associate the state of Utah with a thriving jazz program, you might be surprised to learn about the exciting educational opportunities offered to students at Utah State. Apart from the picturesque scenery, Utah State students get study with one of the country\u2019s top jazz guitarists and educators, Corey Christiansen. A medium-sized program, Utah State might be off the beaten path, but it is a school worth checking out when looking for a top-level jazz education.<\/p>\n<h2>24. Indiana University (Jacobs School of Music)<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/images\/blog\/colleges\/indiana-university.jpg\" alt=\"Indiana University Jacobs School of Music\" width=\"720\" height=\"237\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Website<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.music.indiana.edu\/departments\/academic\/jazz\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">www.music.indiana.edu\/departments\/academic\/jazz<\/a><br \/>\n<strong>Location<\/strong>: Bloomington, IN 47405<br \/>\n<strong>Tuition (2015)<\/strong>: <strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$10,400<\/span> <\/strong>(In State)<strong> \/ <span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$33,700<\/span> <\/strong>(Out of State)<br \/>\n<strong>Acceptance Rate<\/strong>: 72%<br \/>\n<strong>Degrees<\/strong>: Bachelor, Master<br \/>\n<strong>Guitar Teacher<\/strong>: Dave Stryker<br \/>\n<strong>Alumni<\/strong>: Jamey Aebersold, Randy Brecker, Chris Botti, Peter Erskine, &#8230;<\/p>\n<p>Consistently ranked as one of America\u2019s top music schools, Indiana University features some of the top jazz educators in the nation. With a roster that features David Baker, Dave Stryker, Luke Gillespie, and Steve Houghton, to name a few, IU students get a chance to study with experienced performers and educators in a medium sized program. Alumni include Jamey Aebersold, Randy Brecker, Chris Botti, and Peter Erskine.<\/p>\n<h2>25. Rutgers University (Mason Gross School of the Arts)<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/images\/blog\/colleges\/mason-gross-school-of-the-arts.jpg\" alt=\"Mason Gross School of the Arts\" width=\"720\" height=\"260\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Website<\/strong>: <a href=\"http:\/\/www.masongross.rutgers.edu\/music\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">www.masongross.rutgers.edu<\/a><br \/>\n<strong>Location<\/strong>: New Brunswick, NJ 08901-1411<br \/>\n<strong>Tuition (2015)<\/strong>: <strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$11,000<\/span> <\/strong>(In State)<strong> \/ <span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">$25,000<\/span> <\/strong>(Out of State)<br \/>\n<strong>Acceptance Rate<\/strong>: 21%<br \/>\n<strong>Degrees<\/strong>: Bachelor, Master<br \/>\n<strong>Guitar Teacher<\/strong>: Vic Juris<br \/>\n<strong>Alumni<\/strong>: Terence Blanchard, Terell Stafford, Kenny Davis, Adam Cruz, &#8230;<\/p>\n<p>With a focus on ensemble playing, offering 16 different ensembles for 60 students, Rutgers is a viable destination for players looking to gain valuable performance experience during their formal education. As well, the faculty features some of the top names on the East Coast scene, including jazz guitar legend Vic Juris. Alumni include Terence Blanchard, Terell Stafford, Kenny Davis, and Adam Cruz.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Are you a student in any of these schools or another jazz school?<\/strong> Let us know in the comments below&#8230;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>A guide for those that want to take their guitar playing to the next level and are looking for a jazz guitar university program.<\/p>\n<p>Finding and making a choice between the available schools can be though. This guide will help you make your choice.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":2932,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"default","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"default","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"default","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[93],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2912","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-jazz-guitar-for-beginners"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2912","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2912"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2912\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2932"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2912"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2912"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.jazzguitar.be\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2912"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}