Students will form a standard jazz ensemble consisting of five trumpets, four trombones, five saxophones, piano, bass, guitar and drums. The instructor will teach the material and will conduct all rehearsals and concerts. In addition, the use of mechanical and/or electronic aids such as the TAP rhythm machine, recordings, tuning devices, metronomes, and others may be assigned and evaluated.
Repertoire for this course will include a wide variety of arrangements for Big Band including swing, rock, Latin and ballad styles. In addition, students will practise ear training using "ear training tapes for the musician" by David Baker and will study jazz improvisation using materials by Jamey Aebersold and others.
Through rehearsals and performances, the successful student should learn the following:
- Improvisational skills and solo playing
- Ensemble techniques – section blend, rhythm comping, intonation, rhythmic accuracy, etc.
- Proper phrasing and articulation of all styles of Big Band music from originators like Duke Ellington and Count Basie to Modern Jazz and Jazz/Rock arrangements
- Sight reading
- The recognition and appreciation of various styles and periods in the history of jazz through listening to recordings
- Modern recording techniques through participation in live and studio recording sessions.
| Midterm improvisation test and/or in-class assessment | 15% |
| Midterm ensemble work | 20% |
| Final improvisation test and/or in-class assessment | 15% |
| Final playing test or recording session | 20% |
| Final ensemble work | 30% |
*N.B. In a performing group, regular attendance is vital to the learning of ensemble skills and the achievement of high performance standards. Absences affect every member of the ensemble; therefore 5% of the final mark will be deducted for each unexcused absence, to a total of 30%. Excused absences will include illness and urgent family or personal matters.
Unexcused absence from a dress rehearsal or a concert will result in a failing grade.
All music and study materials will be provided by Douglas College.