Students pursuing either the Instrumental Performance or Composition/Arranging emphasis of the MM Jazz Studies degree must complete a public lecture presentation. This presentation will focus on the independent research undertaken by the student over the course of their graduate studies at the University of Oregon. This project will be reviewed by a committee of three Jazz Studies faculty members who are responsible for approving the lecture proposal, the pre-lecture hearing, and the presentation itself.
Student research should be completed with the guidance of a member of the Jazz Studies faculty. Students in the Composition/Arranging Emphasis should register for MUJ 605 Reading & Conference for 4 credits with their primary faculty advisor to support this project. Students in the Performance Emphasis should discuss their research with their studio instructor.
Most typically, this presentation will take on the form a lecture-recital. Showcased should be the findings of the student’s independent research and application of said research to the creation of their own music. It is most common for students to study the works of great artists through transcription or score study and analysis. However, other forms of scholarly research are acceptable.
Timetable of Events
In order for your lecture-presentation to go smoothly it is important that you observe the following timetable and meet deadlines. Failure to do so may result in a delay or cancellation of your event(s). A timetable of events follows, with more details below:
1st Year of Study (academic year before recital):
Spring Term – Initial Meeting w/ Director of Jazz Studies
- Students must meet with the Director of Jazz Studies to schedule the dates of the lecture presentation (as well as your recital/CD project, oral examination, and, if not already completed, your barrier exam). Be prepared to discuss initial thoughts/plans for the content of your research, and to review the timeline events leading to its successful completion the following year.
- Students in the Composition/Arranging emphasis are required to complete an Independent Study (MUJ 605 Reading & Conference – 4 credits), which is meant to support the research for their presentation in consultation with a Jazz Studies faculty member. If not already completed, students should plan on registering for this during the following Fall term.
- Get the registration process started by following the link on this page.
2nd Year of Study:
Week 3 of Fall Term – Submit Lecture-Presentation Proposal for Committee Approval
- Complete the Grad Lecture Proposal and email it to your committee members before the start of Week 3 of Fall Term. The abstract should summarize both the research as well as its application in your own work.
Winter Term – Pre-Lecture Hearings
- Pre-Lecture Hearings are scheduled throughout the first half of Winter term. Each is an informal dress rehearsal for the formal presentation to follow. It may take place in a faculty office or a conference room, but be prepared to present your lecture from beginning to end.
- At the end of your hearing, the faculty will have comments, so be prepared to take notes so you can make adjustments before the Public Lecture Presentation.
Winter & Spring Terms – Present Your Research!
- Your Public Lecture Presentation will take place during regular Jazz Department Master Class hours. In the days leading up to it, you should reserve the room and take the time to make sure all of the needed AV equipment is working and to rehearse. You should also reserve the room for 30-60 minutes immediately before the presentation if possible to prepare and make sure everything is set up and working.