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Roots, Jazz, and American Music

Degrees and Programs

Undergraduate

Jazz Bachelor of Music

Our tune has a different bridge.

students perform with teachers in a jazz ensemble

A program for undergraduate and postgraduate students that takes a holistic view of jazz from its inception to its current status, RJAM prepares the next generation of great jazz artists by engaging students in an innovative model of apprenticeship with all-star faculty, including members of the SFJAZZ Collective. Students in the RJAM program have the opportunity to perform in multiple venues in the Bay Area, and to collaborate and learn from some of the top jazz artists on the concert circuit today.

Faculty

Innovators and industry experts

Jason Hainsworth Headshot

Jason Hainsworth

Associate Dean of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and Special Advisor to the President

Roots, Jazz, and American Music
Learn more about Jason Hainsworth
SFCM Opera performance

Industry Alliances to Support Students and Artists

In recent years, SFCM acquired two leading artist management companies and an iconic record label to reimagine how elements of the music industry can better integrate to advance the human experience through music. For students, that means more opportunities to interact with touring artists and industry experts–including professional development workshops, side-by-side performances, and enhanced masterclasses.

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Visiting the Campus

We look forward to your visit! Contact the Office of Admissions to take a tour of our facilities. You can also contact the RJAM faculty directly to arrange a consultative lesson.

SFCM Students working in a classroom

Audit a Class

We've saved a seat for you. During your visit to SFCM, sit in on a class or two and see what it's like to be a student at the Conservatory.

RJAM ensemble

Ensembles

As an RJAM student, you’ll become part of a working ensemble of five to eight members, modeled after the SFJAZZ Collective itself. This ensemble will serve as your vehicle for development as a band member, composer, and performer. Other ensemble opportunities, including jazz orchestra, big band, and hybrid ensembles, will also be available at SFCM and through SFJAZZ programming.

Financial Aid and Affordability

At SFCM, we understand that college is a substantial investment. We're here to help, and we're committed to working with you to achieve the education you desire. 99% of our students receive financial aid at an average rate of 57% tuition discount.

Life on Campus

Learn about safe and secure, all-suite on-campus housing, where 24/7 practice rooms are just the beginning.

Performances

We put on more than 500 performances a year, including student recitals, masterclasses, and side-by-sides with exciting guest artists—most of them free to the public. Check out one today.

Newsroom

Get the inside scoop on everything going on at SFCM with stories of SFCM's students, alumni, faculty and leadership.

Alliances

SFCM leads an alliance across the music industry consisting of artist management companies Opus 3 Artists and Askonas Holt and recording label Pentatone. Together, their work creates opportunities for students, artists, presenters, and audiences to develop and experience new ideas.