Jazz Workshop 2A

About this course

The course develops jazz improvisation through melodic soloing, jazz phrasing, ornaments, cadences and different approaches to structuring solos. Participants work with advanced scales and arpeggios, chord sequences, jazz standards, and diatonic, chromatic, modal and diminished harmony while building jazz language and repertoire. Classes include exercises performed with tutor accompaniment on guitar or piano, or with backing tracks, alongside group accompaniment and band performance. Handouts cover theory, harmony, rhythm, phrasing and technique. Feedback, advice and question-and-answer sessions support the classwork, with play-along tracks available for practice outside lessons.

What you'll learn

• Apply advanced scales, arpeggios, chord symbols, chord sequences and jazz phrases
• Maintain accurate timekeeping while playing at tempo
• Use traditional, bebop, modal and contemporary approaches to jazz rhythm and harmony
• Perform a broad range of jazz standards and contribute to group accompaniment
• Structure improvised solos using melodic, harmonic and rhythmic techniques

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for experienced jazz players working at an Intermediate level and developing beyond fundamental techniques. Participants work on their own instrument, perform exercises with accompaniment and take part in band performance. Regular practice between classes is described as essential.

• Requires a reasonable command of the chosen instrument
• Requires basic knowledge of chord symbols and harmony
• Some improvisation ability and reading skills are expected
• Includes individual playing, accompanied exercises and ensemble performance

Before you go

• Participants should bring their instrument and a pen or pencil.
• Amplifiers for bass and guitar are available in the classroom.
• Regular practice between lessons is essential.
• Handouts are provided during lessons, and play-along backing tracks are supplied for practice outside class.