Overview
The USC Thornton studio/jazz guitar department is considered one of the finest guitar programs in the world, boasting a faculty of world class touring and recording guitarists. The doctoral program in studio/jazz guitar is the first of its kind in the world. Graduates include top touring sidemen with major recording artists, composers for film, television and other media, classical ensembles, music supervisors and world renowned teachers of music. They perform with a diverse array of distinguished artists and ensembles including Michael Buble, Sara Evans, Mel Tormé, Ray Charles, Shadowfax, Enrique Inglesias, Ricky Martin, Mark Anthony, The Backstreet Boys and Jack McDuff. Alumni include Paul Jackson Jr. and Lee Ritenour, as well as Andrew York (a member of the Los Angeles Guitar Quartet), Richard Smith and Larry Koonse.

Degrees Offered
BM, MM, DMA, Graduate Certificate

Curriculum
The BM in studio/jazz guitar is a four-year, 132-unit program consisting of course work in the major (individual instruction, functional skills, performance practices, pedagogy, evolution of the guitar in the United States, guitar history, improvisation and arranging, current electric guitar styles), core music studies (theory, aural skills, music history, conducting ensembles) and USC's general education and writing program. Junior and senior recitals are required.

The MM in studio/jazz guitar is a two-year, 30-unit program consisting of individual instruction, ensembles, advanced studio guitar performance, music history and electives. A graduate recital is required.

The DMA in studio/jazz guitar requires a minimum of 65 units beyond the bachelor's degree and consists of five areas of study: the basic DMA curriculum, course work in the major, an academic field and two elective fields. Four doctoral recitals are required.

USC Summer Guitar Seminar
Designed for high school juniors and seniors, this intensive four-week class in July prepares students for successful college and professional careers. For more information, visit the Summer@USC website or the USC Summer Guitar Seminar MySpace page.

Faculty
Adam del Monte
Bruce Forman
Pat Kelley
Tim Kobza
Rolf Kristensen
Frank Potenza
Richard Smith
Nick Stoubis
Steve Trovato
Carl Verheyen

Contact
Department of Studio/Jazz Guitar
USC Thornton School of Music
Los Angeles, California 90089-0851
(213) 740-7399
guitar@usc.edu