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Jazz Studies

Division News

Catch up on the latest news from the division of Jazz Studies.  
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Diego Rivera on the 2026 National Collegiate Jazz Championship

Diego Rivera talking into a mic with a bookshelf in the background
Dec. 12, 2025 | BSOM BODY

In this episode, we talk to Director of Jazz Studies Diego Rivera about being accepted to the 2026 National Collegiate Jazz Championship. We discuss the history of the Jazz Championship and what the Jazz Orchestra will encounter when they arrive in New York to compete.

Rachel Spencer on Jazz Education

Rachel Spencer talking into a mic with a bookshelf behind her
May 19, 2025 | BSOM BODY

In this episode, we talk to Rachel Spencer, a D.M.A. student in jazz trumpet performance, about the upcoming tour of Japan. Rachel not only discusses the tour, but also shares insights into what jazz music education looks like in the United States, particularly in K–12 schools. She reflects on her experience teaching jazz at the middle school, high school, and now university level, and explains why jazz education is fundamental to developing lifelong musicians.