MUS 293 Jazz Combos

For instrumentalists wishing to study jazz styles in a small group (combo) setting. Students form several small ensembles combos of up to seven players to study jazz standards from the Real Book and other jazz "fake books". Emphasis is placed on performance styles as well as fundamentals/elements of jazz theory as they relate to harmonic form and improvisation and listening. Contents and expected learning proficiencies of this course vary from term to term. May be repeated up to 12 total credits.

Credits

2

Prerequisite

Ability to read music or recommended concurrent enrollment in MUS 101 

Course Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
1. Perform competently on voice/instrument within a small jazz ensemble
2. Demonstrate the basic skills of instrumental jazz improvisation and accompaniment within the various forms of the jazz music repertoire, particularly the "lead sheet" format
3. Demonstrate understanding of chord symbols, how they relate to jazz scales/modes and how to communicate with other jazz musicians using "short-hand" of chord terminology
4. Demonstrate an understanding of the basic rhythmic, harmonic, and melodic role played by each member of a small jazz ensemble, and how to best support and enhance these roles