Jazz Handbook

Welcome to the Jazz Studies program at Mason Gross School of the Arts, New Brunswick, NJ.

The goal of the jazz curriculum is to fully train and prepare those admitted for successful careers in the contemporary performing arts. Fundamental skills in the following areas are to be developed:

• Instrumental Technique
• Improvisational Fluency
• Repertoire
• Sight Reading
• Small and Large Ensemble Proficiency
• Ear Training and Keyboard
• Practice, Rehearsal, and Performance Discipline

Grading standards are based upon the following criteria:

• Preparation
• Performance
• Attendance
• Punctuality (timely arrivals, as well as handing in assignments and form submissions by their posted deadlines)
• Program Policy Observations: meeting deadlines, requirements

Students must keep track of important school events each semester, including concerts and performances, as these are essential for meeting course requirements. Email is the main communication method, and not checking it will not excuse any unawareness of critical messages.

The student acknowledges their responsibility to diligently review the following forms of communication throughout each semester:

• The online Jazz Event Calendar
• Student designated Email
• The Jazz Bulletin Board (located outside the RHL104 doorway)
• School-assigned Student Mailbox (in the basement of Marryott Music Building)

Rutgers.edu email accounts are provided for each enrolled student by the Rutgers Office of Information Technology. The process to obtain an account is generally as follows:

1. Register a Rutgers NetID if you have not already, here
2. Visit the Rutgers Email Information page here to establish your email account
3. Configure and access your new email through ScarletApps, here

If you have problems accessing your account, contact the Helpdesk at 732-445-HELP (4357), or send an email to helpdesk@nbcs.rutgers.edu.

Note: Informal text messaging is not an official form of communication and is not utilized or relied upon by the school, faculty, or administration.

Eligibility

Jazz ensemble placements are based on students’ skills demonstrated during auditions at the start of the semester. Any currently enrolled Rutgers University student can participate, regardless of major, if they meet the audition requirements and receive approval from the Mason Gross Jazz faculty. Students must also submit all start-of-semester agreement forms by the deadlines to remain eligible.

Ensemble Placements

The jazz faculty has the right to evaluate and adjust ensemble placements as necessary. Placements are treated as assignments, and students must respect the faculty and the decisions made to support the program’s success. Ensemble instrumentation is determined by the faculty, which in turn affects student assignments. Large ensembles, such as JE-1 and JE-2, as well as specialized groups like Super-Sax, have strict requirements. Assigned students are responsible for their duties and must find replacements with the approval of program administrators.

Returning students do not receive placement considerations based on previous semesters. All students must audition and re-qualify for ensembles each semester; no automatic qualifications are assumed.

Advanced Ensemble Policy

The jazz program offers ensembles at intermediate and advanced levels. Advanced ensembles, such as Jazz Ensemble I, Mingus Large Ensemble, Jazz Trombone Ensemble, and Afro-World Jazz Ensemble, are designed for students who excel both musically and academically and seek a challenging experience.

Students on academic or artistic probation, or with incomplete or failing coursework, are not eligible for advanced ensembles; however, they may regain eligibility once the issues are resolved.

Ensemble Grading

Grade evaluations depend on punctuality, preparation, and collaboration. This includes maintaining attendance, arriving on time for rehearsals, completing assignments, and actively participating in ensemble activities. Missing a major performance or venue will result in a grade of “F” for the semester.

Chamber Jazz Ensembles

Placement audition results will be announced by the first Monday of the semester. Non-majors may join chamber ensembles if seats are available. Graduate students in non-credit ensembles must meet all requirements, including rehearsals and performances, or risk exclusion. Grades for Chamber Ensembles depend on completing all requirements and projects.

Chamber Jazz Recital Policies

• Ensembles are to prepare two (2) selections for their upcoming chamber recitals and keep their segment within 15 minutes.
• Attire is Performance Black
• No gum chewing
• Performers are to remain within the recital hall at all times and be prepared to take the stage. It is not permissible for performers to wait their turn outside of the hall
• Equipment set up and sound-check/rehearsals must end before when doors open for the audience (normally a half-hour before start time)
• Please transition between ensembles as quickly as possible
• Please respectfully work with the Event Staff who are present to oversee the recital and manage the audience
• As with all events, student performers are expected to represent the jazz program and the school properly

Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Lab Band, and Alternate Themed Ensembles

The emphasis of the Large Jazz Ensembles is to prepare the student for a career as a successful performer while stressing:

• Sight-reading
• Understanding of section playing
• Ensemble precision
• Improvisational skills and
• Knowledge of diverse styles

Students enrolled in jazz ensemble(s) …

• Students are responsible for all music. Lost parts must be repurchased at their expense or re-copied from the score if unavailable. Music should be returned after rehearsals and performances; leaving it unattended on the stands is not permitted.
• Are responsible for bringing proper equipment to all rehearsals.
• As Brass players will bring all mutes.
• As Reed players will bring all doubles.

Rehearsal Setup And Breakdown

Drummers are responsible for arriving early with enough time to retrieve and set up the Jazz Ensemble Drum set. Guitar and Bass players are to arrive in time to recover and set up amps. Everyone must return all equipment to the proper storage areas in RH 209A after rehearsal.

It is the Ensemble GA’s responsibility to set up prior to the scheduled time to ensure that the rehearsal starts on time. After rehearsal, everyone is encouraged to assist in returning all chairs and stands to their designated storage areas and leave all rehearsal spaces in order.

Substitutes

Students must arrange substitutes for their absences and provide the substitute’s name to the Jazz Studies faculty or ensemble assistant. Failure to do so leads to an unexcused absence. If a substitute is late or absent, it impacts the primary student’s grade. The preferred substitute is a Rutgers Jazz student.

Critical rehearsals—those immediately before a performance, including dress rehearsals—cannot have substitutes. All substitutes must be approved in advance by the Chair of Jazz Studies or the Ensemble Director. Non-compliance may result in a compromised or failing grade.

Student Arrangements

All students, except first-year undergraduates, are required to contribute arrangements and compositions for concerts. For the Chamber Jazz Ensemble, submissions should include the composer and arranger’s names and must be sent to your instructor at least two weeks before the concert or performance.

Live/Virtual Performance Assignments

Jazz directors may assign graded virtual performance assignments in addition to live performance requirements each semester. Participants in the jazz ensemble will be evaluated on their professionalism in a virtual video performance, which will comprise 50% of their overall grade. The remaining 50% will come from live performance assignments.

Sectional Rehearsals

Please refer to procedures and policies for assigned sectional rehearsals on the ‘All Ensembles’ page.

Pre-Concert Dress Rehearsal

Please be aware that, unless stated otherwise, a pre-concert run-through will always be held for all students on the rehearsal day preceding concert performances. Attendance is mandatory for all students participating in the concert. Please refer to the Substitution Policy mentioned above.

Pre-Concert Sectionals

The ensemble director reserves the right to call sectionals before each concert. Attendance at sectionals is mandatory.

Concert Attire

All jazz program students are required to wear “Performance Black” attire for all performances, both on and off campus. This means a strict all-black outfit with no patterns or color variations.

Jeans, leather, and any color variations are not permitted. Students are responsible for obtaining the appropriate attire in advance. Failing to follow these guidelines may result in being barred from performing and receiving a failing grade for the large ensemble requirement. The ensemble director will enforce these rules.

Performance Etiquette

Students should represent Rutgers University in a positive manner during Jazz activities, both on and off campus. This includes dressing appropriately, avoiding alcohol and drugs, and refraining from profanity. Remember, you represent yourself and the Rutgers University Jazz Studies program.

Jazz majors are obligated, without exception, to participate in all performances of the ensembles they belong to, regardless of whether taken for credit or not. This would include:

• Chamber Jazz Ensemble recitals and concerts
• Assigned Chamber Ensemble campus gigs, paid or unpaid
• Jazz Ensemble I and Jazz Ensemble II recitals and concerts
• Assigned Jazz Ensemble I and Jazz Ensemble II campus gigs, paid or unpaid

As previously stated, it is the student’s responsibility to obtain a substitute musician in their place, according to the rules above and at the discretion of the respective ensemble instructor.

Off-Campus Performances

Off-Campus Performances are held at venues outside the Douglass Campus, such as the Nicholas Music Center and Schare Recital Hall. All students selected for jazz ensembles each semester are required to participate and represent the jazz program appropriately, regardless of their major.

• Playing opportunities will be arranged in advance each semester at nearby school spaces, including the Student Campus Centers, the Harvest Cafe, and the Zimmerli Museum.
• Ensemble students will be assigned a playing time and location each semester. Students are required to complete at least one performance per semester.
• Each playing session is deemed a major performance, containing the same grading weight and requirements as any other concert or recital.
• Efforts will be made to supply pianos, portable keyboards, and drum gear as needed. Students are responsible for using and returning all school gear utilized in these performances. All other instrumentalists are expected to carry their equipment to each venue.
• Casual attire is permissible unless directed otherwise.

Attendance

You are required to attend all Jazz Studies classes, rehearsals, and performances. You are required to notify the Jazz Studies Faculty and send a substitute if you are unable to attend a rehearsal. Emergency absence should be reported as soon as possible, before class or rehearsal.

Students are advised to use the university’s online Self-Reporting Absence Application (SSRA) to officially report any of their absences; https://sims.rutgers.edu/ssra/.

As stated on that site, use of the SSRA system does not constitute a documented excused absence:

“It is up to your instructors to determine how to handle your absence from classes, labs, or exams. Reporting your absence does not “excuse” you. It notifies your instructors, a courtesy that provides an opportunity for you to contact your instructor directly about missed work.”

Students must contact their instructors to arrange for documented excused absences, as per class policies.

Attendance at a minimum of 50% of the Jazz Student Recitals is required; failure to do so will lower your Rutgers Jazz Ensemble grade by one level. Please also refer to the Critical Rehearsals Policy below.

Absence from a dress rehearsal or a performance will result in a failing grade for the semester.

Absences

All Jazz Studies courses and ensembles have strict attendance policies. You must follow those policies. Any violations can result in a lower grade.

• Each late arrival to rehearsals will count as ½ absence.
• Two late arrivals to rehearsals count as one (1) full absence.
• One unexcused absence will result in the lowering of your grade one-half grade. Two unexcused absences will result in the lowering of your semester grade by one full grade.
• If you fail to attend class regularly, i.e., more than two unexcused absences, you will be required to report to the Chair of Jazz Studies for a conference. Further absence could affect your grade and may result in possible artistic probation.
• Attendance at rehearsals and classes is crucial. If you cannot attend due to illness or an emergency, report it immediately—informing the Jazz Studies Faculty or TA is not an official excuse.
• For professional leave, submit your request at least four weeks in advance. If approved, you must arrange a substitute, notify the faculty, and provide the music for rehearsals in advance.
• Any absence without a substitute will result in a grade reduction and, possibly, artistic probation.

Leave of Absence

Long-Term Leave

If you are in good standing, you can request a leave of absence for one academic year (two consecutive jazz program semesters) without needing to reapply. If you withdraw for over a year, you will need to reapply and re-audition.

Short-Term Leave

If you are in good standing, you can request a short-term leave of absence by submitting a Short-Term Leave of Absence Form to the Jazz Studies Faculty at least four weeks before your departure for professional commitments.

Your request must include a detailed justification and may require a meeting with the Chair of the Jazz Studies program. A short-term leave cannot exceed three consecutive weeks; exceeding this will be considered a long-term leave, potentially affecting your course grades. Approval depends on endorsement from your major teacher and confirmation that the leave enhances your academic and professional growth without conflicting with Rutgers’ commitments.

Please attach any relevant professional contracts and provide a list of your class and ensemble teachers, including their schedules and any previous leaves. You must also arrange for a substitute for your rehearsals and inform the Jazz Studies faculty of their name. Requests that are denied will be communicated to your instructors. Only students in good academic standing are eligible for leaves.

Jazz Leave of Absence Form

Re-Entrance After a Long-Term Leave

Any long-term leave from the jazz program lasting more than one academic year requires students to re-audition before a panel appointed by the program directors. The evaluation will be based on the student’s last fully attended semester, as outlined in the “Jury Requirements,” including any specific criteria for Keyboard Essentials.

Students must prepare at least two memorized tunes from their last attended semester, with at least one selected for evaluation. If the jurors find that the re-audition does not meet the criteria, the student must arrange another re-audition with the jury faculty before being permitted to re-enter the program.

Deadline

The Ensemble Scheduling form must be submitted by midnight on the first Tuesday of each semester. Students should provide their availability by this deadline and can update it until the end of the Drop/Add period. All Start-of-Semester Agreement policies are now automatically included with this form submission.

Purpose

All students, regardless of their major, must complete the online Ensemble Scheduling Form to participate in ensembles. If you need to update any information, simply submit another form; the most recent submission will be used.

Implications

Jazz majors must accept placements in large or alternate large ensembles as determined by the faculty, regardless of personal preferences. Students should prioritize their schedules, especially during the drop/add period, to accommodate these placements. Students agree not to misrepresent their availability for ensemble times. According to Rutgers’ code of conduct, Section VII-A, 2b-c, accurate availability must be stated, and violations may result in exclusion from ensemble participation and the jazz program.

Missed Form Deadline

Students must submit an Ensemble Scheduling Form by the first Tuesday of the semester. Failure to do so will result in a zero (0) audition ranking, with no priority for ensemble placement. It is the student’s responsibility to earn their ensemble credits and follow all procedures and deadlines. The jazz program is not required to accommodate students with a zero ranking and is not responsible for any missed credits.

To join an ensemble for the semester, students must agree to the Start-of-Semester agreements, which include the Student Jazz Handbook Agreement, Jazz Drummer/Percussionist Agreement, Non-Piano Major Agreement for Undergrad Semesters 4 and 5, and the Graduate Comprehensive Exam Preparation Acknowledgment. Signed submissions for these agreements are included in the Ensemble Scheduling Form and are due by the same deadline.

Students are given two weeks before each semester starts to review the jazz handbook and all published policies of the jazz program, prior to signing these agreement forms.

Student Handbook Agreement

Jazz majors must agree to the Jazz Handbook policies by the first Tuesday of each semester and submit their agreement to a department administrator. Students should read the handbook thoroughly before signing, as this indicates their consent to the terms outlined in the document. Policies may change at the discretion of the Jazz Artistic Director and faculty. Refer to the grading policy for related forms.

Jazz Drummer/Percussionist Agreement

Jazz Drum Majors must sign and submit the ‘Jazz Drum Major Jury Agreement’ mentioned above by the first Tuesday of each semester. They are expected to demonstrate proficiency in scales, chords, and theory and must adhere to specific program and jury requirements. Refer to the Grading Policy for forms.

Undergrad Sem-4/5 and Grad Sem-3 Non-Piano Major Agreement

Non-piano majors must demonstrate keyboard proficiency by first Tuesday of each semester and prepare for jazz juries. They must sign the ‘Keyboard Essentials Agreement for Non-Pianists’ mentioned above, which is considered a graded assignment.

Graduate Comprehensive Exam Preparation Acknowledgement

Graduate Jazz Majors must sign and submit the Comprehensive Exam Preparation Acknowledgement form by the first Tuesday of each semester, certifying that they have reviewed and understand all Comprehensive Exam procedures, dates, expectations, and supplied study materials, as outlined on rutgersjazz.net.

Note that non-jazz major students only need to sign a Handbook Agreement form. All other forms do not apply.

Missed Deadline

Refer to the above Ensemble Scheduling Form missed deadline policy, which applies.

Jazz Performance Majors must register for private lessons each semester, with instructors assigned by the jazz faculty. Students will alternate between different instructors when a given studio has more than one instructor, except in specialized cases. Lesson times depend on ensemble scheduling, finalized after auditions in the first week. Students should coordinate directly with their assigned instructors.

Students may be removed from the program if their grade falls below a B, as determined by the applied teacher, Jazz Faculty, or relevant committees. Students are responsible for understanding Private Lesson Assignments and graded components, including Jury Scale, Sight-reading, Jury Tune studies, Artist Studies, and Keyboard Essentials for non-piano majors.

Jazz majors at Rutgers University must take a sight-reading proficiency exam each semester, except during recital semesters. To perform a senior recital, students must pass levels 1 through 4 of the exam, which is typically included in the Jury exams.

The Jazz Faculty provides instrument-specific materials: guitarists and pianists read chord symbols and melodies, horn players tackle complex pieces, and drummers sight-read Big Band parts, all performed with a metronome or play-along track.

The exam is graded on a pass/fail basis. Students may retake it once if they fail, but two failures result in an automatic failing grade.

Jazz jury performance exams are held at the end of the fall (December) and spring (May) semesters. These required exams will determine a student’s continuation in the jazz program. Students are to prepare tunes from the approved year’s Tune List and will be asked to perform one from memory during the jury, along with other theory and sight-reading components. Specific jury criteria are detailed on the Jazz Jury Requirements page.

Jazz majors are excused from taking a jury exam during their final semester when they are also preparing a terminal recital in the same semester. The exception is when attempting to resolve any incomplete jury requirements.

Jazz Jury Grading

Jury exams are a major element of a performance-based program and are conducted before a panel of jazz faculty members who evaluate students on their preparation, execution of semester requirements, and evidence of progress and growth. The expectation is that performance major students, with the help of their private instructors, will approach their jury preparation with the diligence and intentionality they require throughout the semester.

A failing or incomplete jury exam grade in any semester will result in (1) ineligibility for advanced ensemble placement, and (2) possible artistic probation until the grade issue is addressed. Unresolved jury exam grades by the end of a student’s last semester will impact their eligibility to graduate from the program.

All jazz majors whose primary instrument is not the piano are required to complete jury keyboard proficiency exams as part of their regular jury exams within the following periods:

• Undergraduate Semesters 3 and 4 Juries
• Graduate Semester 3 Jury

Students should understand the importance of this keyboard study and practice the exam material throughout the semester as they would for their primary instrument. Proficiency to pass the exams cannot be achieved through last-minute cramming, so this study should not be viewed as an afterthought.

Refer to the Jury Keyboard Proficiency (Non-Piano Majors) page for exam criteria, which is graded as “Pass / Incomplete”. Any incomplete portion of the keyboard exam must be retaken during the next jury cycle with the following implications:

• After a student’s sixth semester, an incomplete keyboard jury exam grade will result in a lowering of their entire jury exam grade (not just the keyboard portion) for that semester by a .5 letter grade point (ie, “A” becomes “B+”).
• Consistent with the above, after a student’s next-to-last semester (semester 7 for undergraduates and semester 3 for graduates), an incomplete keyboard jury exam grade will result in (1) an incomplete grade for their entire jury exam (not just the keyboard portion), (2) ineligibility for advanced ensemble placement, and (3) possible artistic probation. It will then be necessary to retake and pass the entire jury exam, which includes keyboard requirements.

As stated, students should approach their keyboard preparation with the diligence and intentionality they require throughout the semester.

Piano Faculty Assistance

While all instructors can help their private students prepare for keyboard juries, the jazz piano faculty is available to provide specialized support. Students may schedule help sessions with the piano faculty between the start of the semester and up to midterm (week eight). To encourage students to prepare in advance, piano faculty assistance will no longer be available to those who miss the midterm week cutoff.. However, students who’ve completed an initial meeting may arrange follow-up sessions on a semester-long basis.

Graduating recitals, or “Terminal recitals,” or “Senior Recitals,” are the final performances for jazz program degree candidates. They demonstrate the students’ proficiency in meeting program requirements before a panel that evaluates their eligibility for graduation. Candidates must prepare with their private lesson instructor, typically completing a full semester of lessons during their final semester.

The school has strict lesson allocations: undergraduates receive a maximum of 8 semesters and Grad students 4 semesters of lessons. Keep this in mind when planning your senior recital.

• By default, graduating recitals are expected in the spring semester of a student’s final allocation of private lesson instruction on their primary instrument. A graduating recital will not be approved in any semester the student is not eligible for, or not fully registered for, a full semester of private lessons. Exceptions will not be made.
• No student may hold a graduating recital without the consent and presence of their current private lesson instructor at the performance.
• Graduating recitals cannot be scheduled if a recital candidate has a grade of Unsatisfactory in any semester of Music Assembly.
• Graduating recitals must have the advance approval of a jazz studies administrator to proceed within a given semester.

Recital Repertoire Requirements

Senior recital program content must contain at least one selection/example minimum of the following criteria:

1. Blues
2. Rhythm Changes
3. Ballad
4. Odd Meter
5. Coltrane Changes [from either the Major 3rd or Minor 3rd Matrix systems or Countdown Changes]
6. Modal
7. Cadenza – at least one minute in length playable by itself or as part of a tune, at the beginning, middle, or end.
8. Original Tune:
   • B.M. – One (1) original tune, written out as a formalized arrangement for at least 3 horns, or in common transposition format (Concert, Bass, Bb, Eb) ideally as an extended leadsheet containing horn structures and ensemble hits.
   • M.M.- Two (2) original tunes, one of which is a formalized arrangement; 4-part minimum horn writing with intro, melody, solos, backgrounds, interludes, development or shout chorus, and melody out

Note: Students are encouraged to combine the above criteria. For instance: write a 5/4 Odd-meter Blues, or, Rhythm Changes containing Coltrane Changes, etc.

Recital Performance Requirements

• Each recital segment will be approximately 45 to 50 minutes long, typically featuring 5 to 6 selections. This time allocation facilitates setup and breakdown per segment, allowing each start time to begin on the hour.
• All recital repertoire is subject to review and revision on a case-by-case basis.
• The recital leader (the graduating candidate) and their supporting band members must be physically present in the recital room throughout the previously scheduled performance and be ready to promptly take the stage and begin their recital at its scheduled time.
• The recital leader will memorize all selections, including chart arrangements, and not rely on printed music during their degree performance; therefore, they must not have a music stand within proximity of their performance location. Supporting band members, however, may use printed music.
• It is strictly prohibited for any Rutgers teaching faculty member to participate in a senior recital in any performance capacity, to be strictly enforced.
• Special lighting, stage enhancements, PA systems, or audio/video recording equipment are not permitted by students or those assisting or attending the recital, according to school policy. The school’s Concert Services facility records audio at all recitals, for which students may obtain a copy (see below).
• The first graduating student to use the performance space on a given date is responsible for coordinating the transportation and setup of any program-related music gear, such as amplifiers and drums.
• The last graduating recital student to use the performance space on a given date is responsible for coordinating the return of any program-related music gear, such as amps and drums, to their designated storage space.

Spring Recital Scheduling

Spring-term Graduating Recital dates are pre-determined in advance by jazz program directors (not by the recital student) for each academic year and announced to students during the prior Fall semester.

Students are not involved in, nor are they responsible for, the selection of adjudicating faculty who will be present at their spring recitals, which is also predetermined. To schedule a spring-term graduating recital, please observe the following:

• Spring Senior Recital candidates will submit the ‘Jazz Spring Senior Recital Declaration Form‘ by the 1st Monday of December deadline of the prior Fall semester.
• Each combined Spring recital session date will be 3 to 5 hours in total length, allowing for 3 to 5 consecutive recitals per date.
• Once a spring recital date has been formalized, respective students will follow up during the early Spring semester to promptly process the remaining school recital application, as required by the Mason Gross Conservatory. The online forms (contact the Main office for links) are used to determine eligibility to proceed with a student’s intended recital date, as they committed to.
• Per conservatory policy, all degree recitals must take place before the last two weeks of classes (excluding exam weeks) during a semester of graduation.

Spring Recital Agreement

Spring recital scheduling starts in the prior Fall semester. By signing the Jazz Spring Senior Recital Declaration form, students commit to a binding recital date. Changes are not allowed after the 1st Monday of December deadline. Missing this deadline may prevent scheduling a spring senior recital.

Students must prioritize their commitments to ensure they complete their mandatory degree recitals, as they are given ample notice and time to make necessary arrangements.

Please refer to the “Graduating Recitals – FAQ” section below for additional clarification

Do I pick the date/time for my spring graduating recital?

Spring recital date(s) will be chosen for you. However, based on faculty availability, if more than a one-time slot is available, you will be presented with date options that you may choose from.

Can I pick the location of my graduating recital?

No. Predetermined spring recital dates and assignments include predetermined recital locations, as well. Custom locations cannot be accommodated or approved.

Can I pick which adjudicators/faculty will be present?

No

My private lessons end in the Spring, but I’m not graduating until the Fall or thereafter. Therefore, I’d rather hold my recital in the Fall.

Recitals must occur in the spring term if your last lesson allocation is during that time, as private lesson registration is required. There are no exceptions. See “Regarding Non-Spring Recitals” below for more details.

I’m pretty sure I’ll still be taking private lessons this Fall, so I’ll wait to hold my recital till then.

This is not possible except by petition under very specific circumstances. Graduating recitals are designated as a spring event, only. Refer to “Regarding non-Spring Recitals”, below.

What’s the difference between the jazz program’s “Jazz Spring Senior Recital Declaration” form and the conservatory’s online Recital Application forms?

The “Jazz Spring Senior Recital Declaration Form” form is required by the Jazz Department only and is used by students in late fall to commit to a spring recital date. The conservatory online forms are used afterward to determine eligibility to proceed with a student’s intended recital date they’ve committed to and to supply needed program information in consultation with their private lesson instructor. Please contact the Main Office for more information.

Who is responsible for filling out all these forms?

It’s the students’ responsibility to complete and submit all forms as specified.

Where can I obtain the Jazz Spring Senior Recital Declaration form, and what is its deadline?

It can be downloaded here and must be submitted to a jazz administrator no later than the 1st Monday of December of the Fall semester, for a Spring recital date.

Where can I find the school’s other required recital application forms and what are their deadlines?

MGSA recital forms can be found online on the school’s website. They are to be submitted in the early spring semester at least 4 weeks in advance of your recital date, which is typically by mid-February (taking Spring break into consideration). Additional instructions are on the forms. Contact the front main office for more details and assistance.

The school recital application forms ask who the other faculty members will be. How would I know if I don’t pick them?

All recital forms must be approved by a Jazz Studies director who will then also advise on co-adjudicators for your recital.

Can I have a post-recital reception?

Recitals with consecutive performances cannot hold individual receptions. However, student recital leaders may coordinate a combined reception after all performances, depending on space availability and scheduling, which is not managed by the jazz program. For details, refer to the school’s reception documentation. If approved, organizing the reception—including setup, breakdown, and cleanup—falls to the recital students, in accordance with MGSA policies.

Performance Attire

Wearing the proper performance attire is essential for demonstrating commitment to the program and representing the school professionally. For Graduating Recitals, you may wear formal attire instead of “Concert Black,” but jeans and leather are not allowed. Please ensure you have the appropriate attire well in advance of the performance, as improper dress can affect your eligibility and grade.

Note: Chewing gum during a performance is absolutely unacceptable and will result in a lower performance grade.

Piano Tuning for Recitals

The scheduling of piano tunings is the responsibility of the Department Administrator. The Department will try to schedule a tuning as close to the day of a degree recital as possible. Tuning for a non-degree recital is the performer’s responsibility.

Graduating Recital Printed Programs

The Music Department types and duplicates recital programs, which must be proofread and approved by the teacher four weeks prior to the recital. Completed programs are placed in the student’s mailbox for distribution, either on a music stand or by friends at the door. Typically, 70 copies are made, and students are responsible for printing program notes or translations.

Recital Room Setup

Students must check the recital room setup at least 30 minutes before the event. No items should be placed on the piano. The room must be left tidy, including returning borrowed items and clearing the stage. A custodial fee may be applied if the space is not properly maintained. The last senior recital student of the day is responsible for returning music equipment, such as amps and drums.

Graduating Recital Recordings

The school records audio of all degree recitals. Copies can be obtained from the main office using an order form available there. Students and others are not allowed to use their own audio or video equipment during the recital.

Graduating recitals are typically held only during the spring semester, except under specific circumstances, such as for music education and double majors involved in remote spring student-teaching assignments or for students whose final semester is not in spring.

For consideration of a non-Spring recital, the graduating recital candidate must:

1. Be eligible for, and registered for, weekly private lesson instruction on their primary instrument during the semester they wish to hold a non-Spring senior recital. Weekly private lessons, commencing at the start of the semester, must extend up to and immediately before the scheduled performance date. This is mandatory and there are no exceptions.
2. Provide written proof that they cannot be present on campus for private lessons during the following spring terminal semester, due to a remote student teaching assignment or fall graduation. Any other spring leave-of-absence status will not meet this requirement or be taken into consideration.

To initiate a petition for a non-Spring term jazz senior recital, candidates must submit the “Jazz Senior Recital Petition for Non-Spring Term” form to the jazz studies director by Monday of Week 3 of the semester. This submission must include proof of private lesson registration and evidence of unavailability for the upcoming Spring semester. Failure to meet these requirements will result in the disqualification of the request.

The faculty expects all admitted students to succeed. If significant issues arise regarding your progress, they will be discussed with you, relevant faculty, the Chair of Jazz Studies, and the Dean of Students. You may be placed on probation, and failing to meet the conditions could lead to dismissal from the program, per Rutgers University’s rules.

General Principles

Student progress in the Rutgers University Jazz program is assessed through performance lessons, juries, ensemble participation, and musicianship courses (Fundamentals I-III). Success is reflected in grades and faculty jury reports, as well as expected attendance at Music Assembly and concerts.

Artistic probation or dismissal typically does not occur in the first two years, except in cases of poor grades resulting from excessive absences or non-compliance with probation terms. Dismissal typically requires a probation period first, unless an F grade is received. Students are usually not eligible for probation more than once; further failures may result in dismissal. Different grading criteria from instructors mean that not all performance issues will result in probation or dismissal, but they may support such actions.

Artistic Probation

A student may be placed on probation for any of the following reasons:

• A grade of C+ or lower in the performance lesson in any semester.
• Grades of C+ or lower from any two faculty members hearing the jury in any semester.
• A grade of C+ or lower in an ensemble in any semester.
• A grade of D or F in Fundamentals of Musicianship in any semester.

Artistic Dismissal

A student may be dismissed from the B.M. program for any of the following reasons:

• A grade of D or F in the performance lesson in any semester, or grades of C or worse in any two semesters.
• A grade of D or F from any two faculty members hearing the jury in any semester, or grades of C+ or lower in any two semesters.
• A grade of F in an ensemble in any semester.
• A grade of F in Fundamentals of Musicianship in any semester, or a grade of D in any two semesters.

Academic Probation & Dismissal

Academic performance policies apply to all Mason Gross students and are outlined in the Rutgers Undergraduate Catalog. The Dean’s office reviews each student’s progress at the end of each semester. If issues arise, they are handled by the Mason Gross Scholastic Standing Committee, chaired by the Dean of Students.

There are specific guidelines for deciding when a student should be placed on probation or dismissed. The guidelines are as follows:

Academic Probation

Students with a term average below 1.8, including first-term first-year students, will be placed on Academic Probation. They will be notified in writing before the next term. While on probation, students must maintain full-time status and complete at least 12 credits each term.

Academic Dismissal

First-term first-year students cannot be automatically dismissed. Students may be dismissed if their term average is 1.4 or lower, or if their average falls below the probationary level in two consecutive terms or three non-consecutive terms. Dismissal can also occur if their cumulative grade-point average drops below specified thresholds.

• • First year: 1.6
  • Second year: 1.8
  • Third year: 2.0
  • Fourth year: 2.0

Academic Dismissal may be appealed to the Mason Gross Scholastic Standing Committee. The appeal process is described in the Mason Gross section of the Rutgers Undergraduate Catalog.

Jazz Ensemble Participation During Probation

Refer to the “Ensemble Policies” section above regarding ensemble participation during a probationary period.

Rutgers University holds many events that are open to the public and it is difficult to control who is in the music buildings. Please keep all of your personal belongings and any Rutgers University property for which you are responsible locked up at all times when not in use.

You may inquire about lost property and should turn-in found property at the Music Office in the Marryott Music Building.

ID Cards

To maintain security, please obtain your RUConnection Identification Card during the first week of school and carry it with you at all times. You’ll need it to check out books from the Rutgers Library. If you lose your card, report it immediately; for theft, contact Rutgers Public Safety.

Instrument Insurance

It is strongly urged that you obtain insurance for your instrument. Rutgers University is not responsible or liable for any damage to an instrument caused on campus, on tour, or at assigned gigs.

Use of studios, practice rooms, or rehearsal spaces at Rutgers University’s Mason Gross School of the Arts is limited to official Jazz Studies activities. Non-drummers cannot access the drum sets in RH 209, and any use of Rutgers drum sets requires prior permission from the Jazz Percussion Professor or Chair of Jazz Studies.

Practice rooms are in the Marryott Music Building and Music Annex and are available during building hours. You don’t need to make reservations; please sign the board in the lobby if all rooms are occupied. These rooms are for music course students, and others need permission. Please keep practice rooms free of socializing, food, and drinks. Smoking is prohibited. If you leave a room for over 10 minutes, take your belongings to allow others to use the space.

The practice rooms are not to be used for teaching purposes without the authorization of the Music Department Administrator.

Only currently enrolled Jazz Drum majors are allowed access to the drum sets in RH 209. Drum/Vibes usage is allowed solely for the purposes of individual Jazz Drum major rehearsal and Rutgers-related performances. Violations of this policy will result in disciplinary action.

Rutgers Health Services is here to try to help keep students healthy while they focus on studies at Rutgers University. Students can expect the same quality of health care services here that they may receive from their own family healthcare provider.

Clinical services range from immediate medical care to physical exams, including women’s health services. Experienced healthcare professionals provide triage, evaluation, and treatment of medically urgent problems. Health Services offers same-day appointments for other pressing medical needs.

Health Services Contact Information

732- 932-7402
Email: health@rci.rutgers.edu

Busch-Livingston Health Center

110 Hospital Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854

Hurtado Health Center

11 Bishop Place, New Brunswick, NJ 08901

Willets Health Center

11 Suydam Street, New Brunswick, NJ 08903

Counseling Services

Counseling, ADAP & Psychiatric Services (CAPS)

All services are accessed through the main office at 17 Senior Street on the Rutgers University, College Avenue Campus. 732-932-7884

Clinical Services

Undergraduate and graduate students often face various stresses, including identity challenges, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and academic pressures. To support them, Counseling, ADAP, and Psychiatric Services at Rutgers University in New Brunswick/Piscataway offer free psychological counseling for all students. Confidentiality is ensured by legal and ethical guidelines.

Alcohol and Other Drug Assistance Programs (ADAP)

Alcohol & Other Drug Assistance Program (ADAP) is a counseling and information program for students who are concerned about their drinking or use of other drugs, about a friend’s use/abuse, or about drug or alcohol use in their family. ADAP is a specialized focus service of Counseling, ADAP & Psychiatric Services (CAPS), a division of Rutgers Health Services.

Nine programs are available at ADAP:

1. Consultation and outreach
2. Evaluation and assessment
3. Individual alcohol/ drug counseling
4. Alcohol/other drug awareness groups
5. Recovery support groups – For students in recovery to provide support and meet other students in recovery.
6. Recovery housing – On-campus housing for Rutgers students who are in recovery from a chemical dependency. It is a supportive environment for students who live abstinent from alcohol and other drugs.
7. Early Recovery Program
8. Nicotine Dependence Assessment and Referral
9. Adult Children of Alcoholics/Addicts group – For students whose parent, other family members or close friend is an alcoholic or drug addict.