Jazz Harmony and Ear Training Applied: Practical Skills for Playing Jazz (A)

About this course

The course examines how harmony, melody and rhythm can shape an improvised solo, including the use of chords, scales, modes, pentatonics, blues language and tension and release. Repertoire includes blues, Rhythm Changes, ballads, modal pieces, II-V-I progressions and jazz standards. Teaching combines ear-training and listening exercises with lectures, questions and answers, video examples, tutor demonstrations and, from Term 2, coached ensemble playing. Learners also study solo transcription, jazz theory, song structures and techniques for practising more effectively.

What you'll learn

• Apply harmonic and rhythmic approaches to improvising on jazz standards
• Improvise from a chord chart and structure a jazz solo
• Recognise chords, intervals, rhythms, scales, modes and harmonic progressions through ear training
• Develop time, swing feel and rhythmic vocabulary for jazz ensemble playing
• Play repertoire including blues, Rhythm Changes, ballads, modal music and standards
• Use solo transcription to examine and expand jazz vocabulary

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for aspiring jazz instrumentalists at an intermediate level. Learners need some competence on their instrument, with Grade 4 or 5 ABRSM standard or above suggested, and basic seventh-chord knowledge is helpful. Jazz experience is desirable but not required. Regular practice between sessions is expected, and the course includes playing with others from Term 2.

• Requires competence on an instrument
• Basic knowledge of seventh chords is helpful
• Jazz background is desirable rather than a prerequisite
• Includes ensemble playing and direct coaching from Term 2

Before you go

• Learners are expected to practise material between sessions as their schedule allows.
• Bring manuscript paper and a notebook.
• Bring an instrument from Term 2 onwards.