No — and this is by design. At our all-undergraduate music school, we believe the most successful jazz musicians—those able to perform at the highest level in today’s music industry—are also highly skilled in classical music. Studying classical music develops a resonant tone quality, strong rhythm and intonation, and an understanding of phrasing that brings emotional shape to music. Classical training also emphasizes proper physical technique on the instrument, which helps prevent playing problems later in life, and builds excellent sight-reading skills. At UW–Eau Claire, all music degrees require classical study, but the Jazz Studies Area functions much like a large-city musical environment. Students perform in four big bands, numerous jazz combos, and concerts that often occur multiple nights each week. With over 120 students involved in jazz, constant performance opportunities, and close interaction with outstanding faculty and peers, students learn by doing. Courses in jazz include private lessons, arranging/composition, improvisation, and multiple recording classes, in addition to the required classical coursework. This approach produces well-rounded musicians, which is reflected in the number of graduates who earn professional jobs and graduate assistantships at many of the nation’s most respected universities and music programs.