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Skidmore Jazz Institute
Application Information

Ed ShaughnessyEligibility

Open to high-school age students and older, the program is geared toward participants whose ability levels range from intermediate to professional. Enrollment is limited due to combo instrumentation. College credit is available to interested matriculated students. Blue Note Records, perhaps the most historic and well-known jazz label, has established a scholarship program for deserving Jazz Institute students.

NOTE: The 2008 program is held in collaboration with the New York State Summer School of the Arts (NYSSSA) School of Jazz Studies. New York State high-school students should apply by contacting:

New York State Summer School of the Arts
State Education Department
89 Washington Ave., Room 866 EBA
Albany, NY 12234
518-474-8773
nysssa@mail.nysed.gov


How to Apply

To apply, please send the completed application form and:

  • $30 application fee
  • a brief description of your musical background (jazz and non-jazz) -- state your preferred style(s) of jazz as well.
  • a letter of recommendation from a current teacher if you are a student

To allow us to group combos and arrange classes, please submit a 10- to 15-minute cassette tape or CD of you performing the following:

  • a ballad
  • an up-tempo swing
  • blues piece (optional)

You may record with pre-recorded rhythm tracks if desired. In addition, please perform – to the best of your ability – the following:

  • the 12 major scales around the cycle of 4ths and
  • dominant 7th arpeggios around the cycle of 4ths
  • drummers should include basic rudiments and jazz rhythms in lieu of the scales and arpeggios

Application review begins April 4, 2008. Send completed application, tape or CD and other materials by April 6 to:

Don McCormack, Director, Skidmore Jazz Institute
Office of the Dean of Special Programs
Skidmore College
815 North Broadway
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866-1632

2008 Application

If you are unable to download our application, or have further questions, please use our e-mail form or contact Maria McColl at 518-580-5595.

International Students

In accordance with U.S. Federal regulations, all non-U.S. citizens must have a student visa to study in the United States. If you are an international student applying to the summer program please click here.