The status of jazz programs in selected secondary schools of Indiana, 1991-1992

The purpose of this study was to determine the status of jazz programs in secondary schools of Indiana for the 1991-1992 school year. Data were gathered by means of questionnaires sent to the directors of twenty-six successful Indiana high school jazz ensembles. Information sought was divided into five major sections: (1) General Information, (2) Teacher Profile, (3) Facilities and Equipment, (4) The Jazz Program, and (5) Budget and Finance. Responses were obtained from 76.9 percent of the total sample, and the data were tabulated and presented with comparison of the findings.The majority of the performances by the successful jazz programs surveyed were for public relations purposes, festivals, and formal concerts. One-half of the jazz band directors were members of IAJE. IAJE members were more active academically. Ninety-five percent of the jazz band directors indicated that their jazz ensembles attend an average of 3.3 competitions each year. Seventy percent of the jazz ensembles rehearsed in the fall during marching band season. Eighty percent of the jazz band directors had their students sing their parts during rehearsals. Sixty-five percent of the jazz band directors had their jazz ensembles sight-read at least 1-2 times weekly. Eighty percent of the jazz programs operated on a budget of $1,000 or more per year.School of MusicThesis (D.A.