Jazz in the European Context

Following the migration of jazz from its erstwhile American roots in the early 20^th Century, jazz has established itself as a dynamic and intrinsic component of European culture. Since the 1960s jazz has increasingly assumed the voice of its European makers, as distinct from those of the American masters and cannon. The communities of production and reception in European jazz have similarly challenged accepted historical understandings, forging new relationships to the music and its contextual positioning. We invite doctoral candidates with interests in either or both practical and theoretical aspects of its European context to come and work within our academic community to contribute to new knowledge in making and thinking about jazz.

The School has a broad range of creative musicians and theorists working in many genres and a lively research culture with a solid track record of PhD completions. You will be encouraged to join in discussions and present your work to other researchers within the School, to participate in shared performance opportunities, and to contribute to the music-related research life of the University. Your professional development, whether you are looking to pursue a career in academic life or within the music industries, will be supported by activities such as opportunities to teach undergraduate students, participation in masterclasses, and receiving advice from prominent industry specialists.

Academic qualifications

A first degree (at least a 2.1) ideally in Music, Humanities or Social Sciences with a good fundamental knowledge of  jazz studies.

English language requirement

IELTS score must be at least 6.5 (with not less than 6.0 in each of the four components). Other, equivalent qualifications will be accepted. Full details of the University’s policy are available online.

Essential attributes:

·       Experience of fundamental research methods in music

·       Competent in conceptualisation of ideas related to theories and practice of jazz

·       Knowledge of current theories pertaining jazz in Europe

·       Good written and oral communication skills

·       Strong motivation, with evidence of independent research skills relevant to the project

·       Good time management

Desirable attributes:

Candidates will either have strong competencies in musical performance and analysis and/or interests in the communities of production and reception of jazz as appropriate to the dominant themes of their specific area of intended research.