Course overview
Jazz theory, aural skills, arranging, and improvisation are all explored in this course through study of relevant texts, musical examples, scores, and solo transcriptions. Synthesising theory and aural skills underpins the study of melodic, harmonic and rhythmic concepts in improvisation. These skills are applied in relation to standard jazz chord progressions and the 2nd year tunes list. Students investigate jazz arranging techniques for small and medium-size jazz ensembles, including score reading and notation, specific instrument types, rhythm section writing, and 4-5 part horn section writing.
Course learning outcomes
- Understand and apply music-theoretical knowledge underpinning jazz language and improvisation as an extension of Jazz Musicianship 2A.
- Understand and analyse contemporary styles including modern harmony, odd time signatures, and Afrodiasporic rhythms.
- Apply aural skills through harmonic, melodic, and rhythmic concepts that support learning jazz language and facilitate ensemble interaction.
- Apply theory and aural skills to required performance repertoire through practical skill development in harmonic, melodic, and rhythmic jazz language.
- Develop critical problem-solving skills through synthesis of theory, aural, and arranging skills required for professional ensemble participation and preparation.
- Develop expertise in creating and formatting arrangements for jazz ensembles, drawing upon voicing techniques established in Jazz Musicianship 1A, 1B, and 2A.
- Develop orchestration skills for small to medium-sized ensembles.
- Create original arrangements for small to medium-sized ensembles.
- Demonstrate a developing awareness of professional standards in collaboration, collective creativity, and ensemble problem-solving.
- Demonstrate effective working relationships and communication of theoretical, aural, practical, and arranging concepts in individual and group learning.