December, 2002

The University of Connecticut is pleased to announce its first bachelor's degree program with a jazz emphasis. Like the rest of UConn’s music programs, the new jazz degree will be small and highly selective. The program officially begins in the fall 2003 semester. Auditions for admission to the program will begin this month.

"I hope to attract the finest young players in the region", says Earl MacDonald, the university’s Director of Jazz Studies. "This program keeps getting better and better. Offering a degree is an important step in our plan to make UConn the premier destination in New England for aspiring, young jazz musicians."

MacDonald arrived at UConn in the fall of 2000 following several years on the road as Musical Director and Pianist with Maynard Ferguson and Big Bop Nouveau. He started an ambitious program of performances and his bands won early recognition at the Villanova Festival. In 2002 the UConn Jazz Sextet took top honors in Illinois at the prestigious Elmhurst Jazz Festival where they swept every award available to them.

MacDonald’s passion for teaching is evident. "It's a thrill to see a student progress. I love being around aspiring, young musicians. Their energy, curiosity, intelligence and ambition are contagious".

Last April, the UConn jazz groups recorded their debut CD, "UConn Jazz". The disc is scheduled for release in early 2003 on the Sea Breeze Vista label. The disc features compositions & arrangements from MacDonald and his students. This is congruent with MacDonald’s musical philosophy "to honor the past, while pushing the art ever forward." Things are looking up at UConn!

Click here for information regarding auditions for the new bachelor's degree program with an emphasis in jazz studies, or call (860) 486-3731.