Bachelor's in Jazz & Contemporary Music Studies
CCPA鈥檚 Jazz & Contemporary Music Studies program gives students the tools to create, collaborate, and confidently move between today鈥檚 essential American music styles. Rooted in a strong command of the jazz language, students grow into versatile artists who can navigate everything from R&B and neo soul to Latin jazz, blues, and modern pop. Our ensemble experiences emphasize community and creativity, bringing students together across programs to explore new sounds. Performances at Chicago鈥檚 historic Jazz Showcase give students the opportunity to learn, grow, and share their music on a nationally celebrated stage.
Why 91精品 for your Bachelor's
Chicago is Our Campus
The Jazz and Contemporary Music Studies program at CCPA is in the heart of the downtown area, with ready access to the venues and performance opportunities offered by a major urban setting. Our faculty is second to none in the Midwest, with instructors who are both artists and dedicated teachers who will work with you to achieve your musical and professional goals.
Experience Day, June 18: Get to know the faculty of CCPA's Jazz and Contemporary Music Studies program during a whole day of master classes and a final afternoon concert at 91精品's beautiful downtown Chicago Campus! Learn more on the CCPA Summer page.
Learn the Rich Jazz Tradition
Students immerse themselves in the genre with classes that focus on jazz history, recording & performance techniques and instrumental styles. Our ensembles are theme-based and explore many areas of jazz-influenced American music, from bebop to Afro-Cuban to Earth, Wind & Fire.
Diverse Areas of Study
If you are looking for an intensive undergraduate experience in a major urban cultural center, CCPA will provide you with the tools you need for professional success. Opportunities exist to minor in other areas and for a double major in jazz and music education.
鈥淥ne of the greatest joys of teaching is witnessing students realize their dreams. Over my 23 years at CCPA, I鈥檝e been privileged to see many of my students achieve just that. Whether they鈥檙e building successful careers performing locally, nationally, or internationally alongside some of the world鈥檚 top musicians, leading their own bands and sharing their unique musical visions, or becoming teachers themselves, CCPA鈥檚 Jazz & Contemporary Music Studies students, past and present, are fulfilling those dreams. I couldn鈥檛 be more proud of them and our school. At CCPA, students have the opportunity to learn from some of the most talented and experienced faculty anywhere, all while living in Chicago鈥攐ne of the best cities on earth for music!鈥
Paul Wertico
Associate Professor of Jazz & Contemporary Music Studies, seven-time Grammy Award winner
"Students can really depend on their professors here, not only for their knowledge, but for their real-life experience working in the music industry. The most valuable experiences I will take away from my time at CCPA will be the many opportunities to perform in Chicago as a student, rather than waiting until after graduation."
Adrian Mendez
Jazz & Contemporary Voice major, class of 2026
