Theory and Improvisation (for Young Musicians) NotesPlacement in Beginning, Intermediate or Advanced Jazz Theory and Improvisation is based on an audition. Please submit a recording (audio or video) performing and improvising on a jazz standard or 12 bar blues of your choice to erik@cjc.edu. You may use a play along track for accompaniment. Please state the student’s name at the beginning of the recording. For those with no previous improvisation experience who would like to start with the beginning level course, no audition is required.
Jazzschool-Online Young Musicians Program NotesScheduling for all Young Musicians Program classes is TBD, based on student scheduling preferences submitted with the application form following each class description. Classes begin the week of September 21st, 2020 and meet for 90 minutes once a week for 10 weeks, with a break for the week of the Thanksgiving holiday.
Jazzschool-Online Technical NotesAll Jazzschool-Online classes meet online via Zoom. Technical requirements include: computer, tablet or phone with a reliable internet connection. Computer (laptop or desktop) is preferred, but a tablet or phone is also possible, with somewhat limited functionality. Optional for improved sound quality: external microphone, either connected via USB or XLR cable to audio interface. For a budget USB mic option, we recommend the Samson Go, currently retailing for around $50 new. Additional technical requirements are listed for specific classes below.
10-WEEK FALL QUARTER / SEPTEMBER 21 – DECEMBER 6 / ALL CLASSES VIA ZOOM / ALL TIMES PACIFIC
Beginning Jazz Theory and ImprovisationVarious Instructors, $395
Intermediate Jazz Theory and ImprovisationVarious Instructors, $395
Advanced Jazz Theory and ImprovisationVarious Instructors, $395
Applying Approach Notes to Chord Tones, Scales and SoloingLearn different approach note patterns, shapes, and rhythms while applying them to scales and chord changes. Basic knowledge of scales and chord tones is required.Raffi Garabedian, $395
Bebop Boot CampStudy and transcription of the bebop jazz language. We’ll learn, analyze and try to memorize the music of the masters. For advanced players only.Erik Jekabson, $395
Integrating Voice LeadingDevelop a thorough understanding of voice leading through a mixture of analysis, theory, and different patterns and improvisation techniques aimed at integrating these ideas onto our instruments and into our aural understanding. We will study a range of historical examples from Bach to Charlie Parker and Mark Turner, and will work to apply these ideas to our playing over common jazz repertoire that we will learn in class. Suitable for all instruments––decent to relatively strong foundation in technique and theory is recommended.Sam Priven, $395
Time and Developing Your BeatDevelop your time through a range of fun exercises meant to challenge you wherever you’re at. We will work with different variations of displaced metronome exercises, polyrhythms, odd meters, and much more. Suitable for all instruments and levels.Sam Priven, $395
TranscriptionIn this transcription class you will learn how to take a solo or song you like, put it on your instrument, and break it down in an analysis that will help you internalize harmonic, rhythmic and melodic concepts. Transcription is one of the best ways to practice ear training, technique, and absorb jazz vocabulary––an indispensable tool!Nora Stanley, $395
Learning Jazz By EarIn this class, we’ll work on connecting what we hear to our instruments, listening to melodies and harmonies and learning to play them without looking at a page. We will transcribe famous jazz solos, listen for the chord changes and melodies of jazz standards, and translate that to our own improvisation.Sam Klein-Markman, $395
Sign Up for Our Weekly E-Newsletter / Follow Us on Facebook and Instagram!
