Mike Titlebaum

Mike Titlebaum is Professor of Music Performance and Director of Jazz Studies at Ithaca College's School of Music, Theatre, and Dance. Based in Ithaca, New York, he directs the Ithaca College Jazz Ensemble, coaches combos, and teaches courses in jazz saxophone, improvisation, arranging, and jazz standards. In 2010, he founded the Ithaca College Jazz Ensemble Composition Contest, which was endowed in 2017 by David P. ('60) and Susan W. Wohlhueter, and he also directs the college's annual Commencement Eve Concert.

Dr. Titlebaum earned his BM in Saxophone Performance and the Performer's Certificate from the Eastman School of Music in 1991, followed by his MM in Jazz and Contemporary Media with an emphasis in Writing Skills in 1992. His educational background also includes additional study in composition at the Oregon Bach Festival Composition Symposium, the Aspen Music School, and the BMI Jazz Composers Workshop.

As a scholar and educator, Titlebaum specializes in jazz improvisation pedagogy, with a particular focus on simple melodic embellishment techniques. His research explores how structured approaches to melodic development can strengthen improvisational skills, especially for novice musicians. He has developed innovative teaching methods that break down complex improvisational concepts into achievable components, allowing students to build melodic clarity and confidence in their solos. His work bridges the gap between theoretical understanding and practical application in jazz education, emphasizing the importance of melodic foundation in improvisation.

Titlebaum's publications and compositions reveal a consistent focus on accessible yet sophisticated approaches to jazz education and performance. His recent editorial work on Jack Gale's "24 Jazz Etudes" and "12 Jazz Duets" demonstrates his commitment to updating and expanding foundational jazz pedagogical materials for contemporary students. His book "Jazz Improvisation Using Simple Melodic Embellishment" presents a systematic approach to developing improvisational skills through melodic embellishment, inspired by Lee Konitz's teachings. His compositions span from educational works for student ensembles to complex concert pieces like "Lifelong Adventure," showcasing his versatility as a creator who bridges educational and professional contexts.

While no specific scientific awards are mentioned in the available materials, Titlebaum's contributions to jazz education through his publications, compositions, and leadership of the Ithaca College Jazz Studies program represent significant professional achievements. His work has been published by prestigious academic presses including Routledge/Taylor and Francis, Oxford University Press, and Art of Sound Music.

As an educator, Titlebaum has mentored numerous students through his teaching at Ithaca College and previously at the Eastman School of Music and Florida A&M University. He founded the jazz track at the American Festival for the Arts in Houston and has conducted clinics and workshops at numerous institutions nationwide. His Ithaca College Jazz Ensemble Composition Contest has provided opportunities for emerging composers since 2010. Beyond the classroom, he actively engages with the jazz community through performances, masterclasses, and his leadership of the "Music Because Music" ensemble.

Titlebaum leads the Ithaca College Jazz Ensemble and coaches various student combos as part of the jazz studies program. He is also active with the "Music Because Music" ensemble, which features "uplifting grooves, inspiring tales, colorful characters, and beautiful melodies." During the 2024-25 academic year, he was on sabbatical, using the time to complete editorial projects and perform with various ensembles including the Deep Dive Big Band, the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, and his own groups.