Steven Heffner

Steven Heffner is an Assistant Professor in Jazz Studies at the University of Utah, a dedicated educator and acclaimed bassist known for his versatile performances across genres. With a DMA from the University of North Texas, he focuses on jazz theory, improvisation, and music pedagogy.

• Education:
  • DMA, University of North Texas
  • Bachelor’s and Master’s, Eastern Washington University
• Research Interests:
  • Free improvisation analysis
  • Schema theory in improvised music
  • Pedagogical approaches respecting jazz tradition
• Teaching Experience:
  • Eastern Washington University
  • Marshall University
  • West Virginia Wesleyan College
  • University of Evansville
  • Simpson College
  • University of North Texas
• Performance Highlights:
  • Collaborated with artists like Christian McBride and Scott Tixier
  • Toured internationally with groups In 6ix and Landau Eugene Murphy, Jr.
  • Active performer in eastern Washington, southeast Ohio, north Texas, and central Iowa