University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL

[shazzo]

hi, i've just applied for the MM in jazz studies at university of miami, coral gables. just waiting for the results now.
i'd like to kow the overall musical surroundings, e.g. jazz clubs etc. how does it compare to New England Conservatory? :)

thanks. hope to hear from you all soon. :wink:

[Frank D]

Check your email, I sent you some links.

[saxplayer02148]

Well, I'm a Bostonian who went to U of M over 20 yrs ago but can give my thoughts on both. U of M has a fine jazz dept and is located in a beautiful setting and climate. To get anywhere in Fla you have to have a car. ANd unless things have changed drastically, there are very few venues for jazz, and even less opportunities to hear any sorts of big names.
Boston, on the other hand, has a fair number of clubs for local players and 3 venues where bigger names come. Boston is a city that you can easily access without a car.
If you get into NEC- then you're pretty damn good and should go for it. They have excellent teachers. But the climate/cold long dismal winters are rather depressing.
There is alot of competition in Boston though. There is Berklee down the street with tons of musicians as students and teachers. Trying to break into the scene isn't easy. At U of M you can probably be a big fish in a big pond.
And I think there are some good connections out of there. Several of my friends really did well for themselves in the Big TIme.
check out both places if you can - either choice is actually a good one.
Stephanie

[shazzo]

thanks so much Stephanie. i am looking forward to going to Uof M. i was checking out some sites and there's a few jazz venues around. the jazz department got some good ratings in the US education poll. anyway, thanks so much again and god bless :)

[shazzo]

http://shazee.homeip.net/music/

check out my mp3s will you? tell me what you think. it's nothing great though :lol:

[GiantSteps]

I finished the Studio Music/Jazz program back in 1983
It was trully a great part of my life, and the challenges, and
insights on creative and personal levels.
Guys like Rick Margitza, Eddie Calle, Pete Minger, and Jaco Pastorius r.i.p. (CJB closed rehearsals), are the caliber of artists, that are not uncommon for U.of M.
Being strong on reading/doubles will help get you into the higher level bands. 8)

[UMBari]

I graduated from UM with my Masters Degree in 2002. Absolutely a great experience for me...I got everything that I wanted out of my educational experience and then some. The outstanding faculty and comprehensive curriculum truly prepare you for most any musical performance situation. I'm sure that you will find that UM will offer you a great experience and that your time and efforts there will be well rewarded.

Best of luck to you,

Vee Popat
www.VeePopat.com

[bruce bailey]

I went to UM from 1965-70 and I can say that each year the level improves. When I went there they had 2 Jazz Bands and the charts were basic Basie. Today you get a full rounded experience with an eye towards YOUR future and what you need to find and KEEP a job when you get out. I do a lot of repair and sales to the guys going there now and it is scary sometimes how well they play and how much time they devote to flute (my business). Whit Sidener and Gary Keller are top notch!