Best colleges for jazz drummer son

My drummer son is currently a sophomore at a local community college with goal to transfer to 4 yr college or conservatory to pursue BM in jazz studies/performance. He hopes to attend a college in SoCal (where we live) that’s near LA music scene since he’s starting to establish himself as a jazz drummer in the LA/OC area. His passion is jazz drumming, so a school that has a strong jazz department is a priority. He originally planned to apply to the Music Production programs at Berklee and USC to give him better post grad career options but cost is a major deterrent. So he’s leaning towards applying to CSUN, CSULB, & UCLA and majoring in Jazz Studies. He hopes he’ll be allowed to also take some classes in Music Production/Audio Engineering. Would love to hear anyone’s thoughts on these schools and any recommendations of other CA colleges (or reasonable out of state) with very reputable jazz programs that he’s overlooking. TIA! :drum: :musical_notes:

You absolutely have the 3 I would recommend in CSUN, CSULB and UCLA.

My husband (bassist) attended CSUN, then transferred to CSULB after a year mainly because he had many gigs in OC area. He said it was a little challenging to break into the studio work near CSUN back then. He had the privilege of studying with John Clayton. :blush: Excellent programs and he had the opportunity to take production and engineering classes. Many/most of the current faculty are very active in the industry.

You might also look at CSULA. Our oldest kid (classical violinist) took a jazz class there last year and we attended a recital. Looks like a very good department.

We know a fair number of current students/recent grads at CSULB. They seem well trained and speak highly of the program. And they are getting good work.

Good luck!

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