One of the oldest jazz studies degree programs in the country, Wayne State's Department of Music offers a Bachelor of Music in jazz studies and a Master of Music in jazz performance. With an emphasis on composition, arranging, and improvisation, the WSU jazz program challenges students in a competitive and rewarding environment in the heart of Detroit’s Midtown Cultural Center. Students who audition by the March audition date for the following fall qualify for talent-based scholarships. For specific program information, contact: Professor Christopher Collins, Director of Jazz Studies (313) 577-1780 or jazz@wayne.edu.   

Winter '09 Artist-in-Residence: John Clayton

Seven-time Grammy nominated bassist/compooser/conductor was artist-in-residence at WSU in April 2009.  John Clayton's talents are consistently requested by the movers and shakers in the jazz industry, such as Quincy Jones and Tommy Lipuma. Clayton says, "When composing or arranging for the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra, I am a disciple of Duke Ellington, Thad Jones, Oliver Nelson, Quincy Jones and Gil Evans, to name just a few." Regarding his bowing techniques, he cites the radically different techniques of Slam Stewart, Major Holley and Paul Chambers as influences. There is no doubt, however, that John has created a niche for himself wherein he stands alone.

 Past Artists-in-Residence

Eddie Daniels and WSU Big Band     Kurt Elling at Detroit Jazz Fest               John Cooper          Jerry Bergonzi          

Branford Marsalis with jazz students    Joe Lovano             Chick Corea            Marion Hayden    John Clayton

Wayne State has played host to a vast array of visiting jazz clinicians,including Branford Marsalis, Joe Lovano, Chick Corea, John Clayton, Walter White, Jon Faddis, Elvin Jones, Steve Houghton, Dave Liebman, Kenny Werner, Fareed Haque, Marvin Stam, and Woody Shaw.

Jazz Week@Wayne for High School Students

Jazz Week@Wayne is a one-week summer workshop that provides forty area high school students with an intensive and rewarding jazz education. All participants, selected from surrounding high schools, are awarded full scholarships to attend the program. Students study jazz improvisation, theory, and ensemble playing. They work in master class settings, jam sessions, and small and large ensemble rehearsals withWSU jazz faculty and guest artists.  All participants perform in a Friday lunchtime concert at Campus Martius Park.  Outstanding Jazz Week students perform on the main stage at the Detroit International Jazz Festival over Labor Day weekend.  For more information about Jazz Week@Wayne, click here. 

Jazz Week@Wayne 2008 high school students at Wayne State workshops and Campus Martius performance.