RJS – The Jazz Big Band

About this course

Participants rehearse classic jazz big band standards while developing coordinated ensemble playing and improvisation over chord changes. Sessions also explore an idiomatic approach to jazz and the demands of performing in a full band with rhythm, saxophone and brass sections. Learning takes place through rehearsal, exchanging ideas with fellow players, and receiving peer and personalised feedback. The course includes regular performance opportunities and may feature original compositions alongside established repertoire.

What you'll learn

• Rehearse and perform classic jazz big band repertoire.
• Develop ensemble techniques for coordinated big band playing.
• Improvise over chord changes in a jazz setting.
• Apply an idiomatic approach to jazz performance.

Is this course right for you?

This course is intended for improvers rather than complete beginners. Learners should be able to read music well and have some improvising ability; previous experience in a jazz ensemble is advantageous. Participation involves rehearsing and performing as part of a full big band.

• Players are sought for drums, bass, guitar, piano, alto, tenor and baritone saxophones, trumpets, and trombones.