New Orleans Jazz and the Blues Ensemble

About this course

Participants rehearse selected jazz standards as members of an ensemble, developing familiarity with swing feel, song forms and standard jazz repertoire. Sessions also address sight-reading, phrasing within the jazz idiom and improvisational vocabulary. Ensemble playing is combined with attention to each musician’s role and regular tutor feedback on the work being developed.

What you'll learn

• Perform as part of a jazz ensemble
• Recognise and navigate common jazz forms and structures
• Improvise using elements of the jazz idiom
• Identify and fulfil an individual role within an ensemble

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for intermediate players with Grade 4 to 5 standard on their chosen instrument. Participation centres on rehearsing and performing as part of a jazz ensemble, alongside individual development in sight-reading, phrasing and improvisation.

• Requires Grade 4 to 5 standard on the chosen instrument
• Involves regular ensemble rehearsal and playing

Before you go

• Bring a working instrument to each class.
• Brass players should bring a selection of mutes.
• Earplugs are strongly encouraged because the instruments and course content may produce high volume levels.