Why Jazz at SDSU?

I’ve just recently joined the SDSU jazz community, and I’m so impressed by the enthusiasm, commitment, and deep love for music these students show. I’m extremely proud to have joined the team, and to be entrusted with the care of these brilliant young minds; it’s an honor to become part of the family.

Teaching in the Jazz Studies Program at San Diego State University has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my career. There’s an energy here—raw talent, dedication, and a real hunger to grow—that makes every day in the classroom feel meaningful. The students are not only serious about the music, but they’re also serious about becoming artists who contribute something unique to the world.

What makes SDSU Jazz so special is the vision and leadership of our director, Brian Levy. His tireless commitment to building a program that values excellence, creativity, and community is already paying off. Under his guidance, we’re creating something that feels bigger than a typical college program—we’re building a movement.

I truly believe SDSU Jazz is on its way to becoming one of the top college programs in the country. The momentum is real, and it’s only just beginning. If you’re looking for a place where jazz is alive, evolving, and deeply connected to the students who shape it—this is the place to be.

The jazz students at SDSU are talented, curious, hard-working, and very supportive of each other.  There is a palpable feeling of community here, between students and mentors alike, that grows with each performance and every semester.  Students will forge life-long bonds with other like-minded peers – they’ll start bands, collaborate on projects, and eventually hire each other for gigs and sessions.  As an alumnus of the university, I have lived this myself.  Today, twenty-five years after I graduated from SDSU, I continue to work with and hire fellow Aztecs (alumni and students) for my events, projects, and sessions.

I chose SDSU's program because I could tell that the environment was not only going to support my growth within the technicalities of my musicianship but also support my individual artistry and provide opportunities for feedback and new skills that I have yet to learn. Plus I could immediately tell that the environment was welcoming and encouraging from the students and the faculty.

When it comes to the curriculum part of your question, honestly the way your Jazz History class runs would make me 'rechoose' SDSU. That class is the prime example of the practices and mindset of 'learn by doing' that you have been actively integrating into this program.

I feel like within that class I can actively watch my own growth not only within my musicianship but also with my knowledge on the history of jazz, which as you know and emphasize throughout all this is so important to being a musician within this genre. That method of approaching being a jazz musician is why I wanted to come here.

I also really enjoy how interactive that class is with the other students as well. It really feels like we are all learning from each other. I love the collaborative aspect of this program as well. Everyone constantly received feedback on how to improve which I really appreciate and enjoy.