UMKC's Jazz Studies Program is known for helping each student develop his or her individual sound and for creating an encouraging environment.   We believe that each artist's journey is unique and we look forward to helping each individual find his or her creative voice.

In addition to boasting an encouraging environment, Jazz Studies students have Jazz Friends on their side.

Founded in 2000, Jazz Friends aims to encourage the creative artistry and talent of UMKC Conservatory students and faculty, heighten the eminence of the Conservatory's Jazz Studies Program and celebrate the legacy of Kansas City jazz. Jazz Friends has provided scholarships, financial support for travel to national and international competitions, unique orchestrations for the performing ensembles and funding for guest artists.

UMKC's Jazz Studies students have won awards at The University of North Texas, University of Notre Dame, Elmhurst College, and UNC-Greeley. Our students have toured Japan and Europe, have been featured at the JEN conference and have performed at the Montreux Jazz Festival.  Alumni and students are bandleaders, chart-making recording artists, Betty Carter Fellows, graduate assistants, educators and have won awards at most of the international jazz solo competitions.