Underscoring the College of Music’s commitment to providing a comprehensive education beyond the classroom walls, our Thompson Jazz Studies Program led an immersion trip to the vibrant musical landscape of Havana over spring break. “With nearly 30 student and faculty participants, we experienced the local culture—incredible people, music, art and food—and worked alongside Ruy López-Nussa, Alejandro Falcon and other master musicians who were so generous with their time and knowledge,” says Professor of Jazz Studies John Gunther. “This trip broadened our understanding of Afro-Cuban music and Latin jazz, and our appreciation for the cultural nuances ​​and shared histories that shape all the diverse styles of jazz we are studying and performing.”