Developing a successful jazz program in a regional centre

This paper defines success as a nationally recognised, self-perpetuating, student atttracting and satisfying, audience acclaimed, sponsorship generating performance based jazz/commercial music degree. The difficulties involved and the obstacles confronting such an outcome were considered by many as insurmountable. Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music (CQCM), however, decided early in its existence that this type of program was probably one of the music specialisations with the most chance of success if certain attributes of the regional area were utilised. Please note that while comments relating to regional centres and music programs are somewhat general and may not all apply to specific regions, the matters discussed and the views presented are considered to be fair generalisation of the situation faced by the regional music school. It should also be noted that some comments might also be pertinent to large centres - such as the generally accepted view that informal jazz performance has a diminishing support base in available venues and audience.