Jazz Workshop 2B

About this course

Participants develop jazz improvisation through work on scales, chord symbols, sequences, phrasing and solo structures. The course covers traditional, bebop, modal and contemporary approaches to rhythm and harmony, alongside a broad repertoire of jazz standards. Exercises are played with accompanying guitar, piano or backing tracks, with feedback, advice and question-and-answer sessions forming part of the classwork. Handouts support the musical topics, while play-along tracks are available for practice outside class. Learners may also choose to have performances recorded.

What you'll learn

• Use a wider range of advanced scales, chord sequences, phrases and chord symbols
• Maintain time and play in tempo
• Apply traditional, bebop, modal and contemporary approaches to jazz rhythm and harmony
• Perform a broad range of jazz standards
• Structure solos using varied improvisational techniques
• Apply newly developed musical knowledge and skills towards the next level

Is this course right for you?

The workshop is intended for experienced jazz players at an intermediate level who are developing beyond fundamental instrumental and improvisation skills. Participation involves playing exercises with accompaniment, and regular practice between lessons is described as essential.

• Requires a reasonable command of the learner’s instrument
• Assumes basic knowledge of chord symbols and harmony
• Some improvisation ability and reading skills are expected
• Suitable for players able to practise regularly between lessons

Before you go

• Learners must bring their instrument and a pen or pencil.
• Handouts are provided for classwork, including material on theory, harmony, rhythm, phrasing and technique.
• Play-along backing tracks are provided for practice outside class.
• Online catch-up lessons are available to learners enrolling in terms 2 and 3.
• Optional recordings of learners’ performances are available.