Music
Jazz harmony and ear training 1B
An improver-level jazz course combining ear training, theory, ensemble playing and improvisation through listening, discussion and practical exercises.
Choose a date before booking
Upcoming classes
1 class
About this course
The course develops listening in relation to jazz form, rhythm, melody and harmony. Participants study jazz sequences, bass-line movement, simple voice-leading, chord types and scale choices including major-scale modes, pentatonics and harmonic minor. Teaching combines group listening, discussion, singing, dictation, chord-recognition exercises, theory and playing activities. Ensemble work applies these ideas to jazz repertoire, while improvisation and composition provide opportunities to use the relationship between scales and chords.
What you'll learn
- Recognise common jazz forms, harmonic progressions and chord types
- Notate simple jazz rhythms and melodies from listening
- Relate scale choices to corresponding chords and harmonic structures
- Apply rhythmic, melodic and harmonic ideas when improvising or composing
Is this course right for you?
This Improver-level course is intended for learners developing beyond fundamental music theory and instrumental skills. Participants should have a good working knowledge of scales, triads, terminology and staff notation, along with instrumental proficiency and familiarity with the jazz idiom. Group listening, discussion, singing and ensemble playing are central to the course.
- Previous knowledge of scales, triads, musical terminology and staff notation is expected.
- Learners should be comfortable playing an instrument and familiar with jazz.
Before you go
- Bring an instrument for most sessions; the tutor will identify sessions when it is not needed.
- Bring manuscript paper and a pencil.