Catalog Description

Prerequisite: Enrollment Limitation: audition required; auditions generally occur the first week of class and require demonstrated ability to play at least one instrument commonly used in jazz ensemble
Advisory: Three to four years experience on instrument
Hours: 54 (18 lecture, 36 laboratory)
Description: Rehearsal and performance of literature written for instrumental jazz ensemble, with emphasis on current musical trends. Study of improvisation. Public performances required. May be taken four times for credit. (C-ID MUS 180) (CSU, UC)

Course Student Learning Outcomes

  • CSLO #1: Identify, assess and distinguish various rhythmic and melodic figures associated with the jazz idiom and perform them correctly on chosen instrument.
  • CSLO #2: Apply knowledge of appropriate stylistic performance practices as it relates to jazz ensemble literature.
  • CSLO #3: Perform at sight in an appropriate jazz style.

Effective Term

Spring 2021

Course Type

Credit - Degree-applicable

Contact Hours

54

Outside of Class Hours

27

Total Student Learning Hours

81

Course Objectives

Lecture-Directed Study Objectives:
1. Play the correct pitches as indicated with accurate intonation.
2. Play appropriate stylistic performance practices as it relates to jazz ensemble literature.
3. Play in time with section and ensemble as directed by conductor.
4. Play with articulation, dynamics, phrasing and expression as directed.
5. Demonstrate improvisational facility on the blues and ii-V-I chord progression.
6. Sight read in appropriate jazz style.
Laboratory Objectives:
1. Demonstrate appropriate blend and balance within the section and ensemble.
2. Perform improvised solos as applicable.
3. Demonstrate professional level ensemble performance and rehearsal standards of conduct.
4. Demonstrate an increased facility above previous level by repetition.

General Education Information

  • Approved College Associate Degree GE Applicability
    • AA/AS - Fine Arts
  • CSU GE Applicability (Recommended-requires CSU approval)
    • CSUGE - C1 Arts
  • Cal-GETC Applicability (Recommended - Requires External Approval)
    • IGETC Applicability (Recommended-requires CSU/UC approval)

      Articulation Information

      • CSU Transferable
      • UC Transferable

      Methods of Evaluation

      • Classroom Discussions
        • Example: After rehearsing a section of a composition, instructor will engage students in a discussion of what they heard in terms of correct articulation, rhythms, intonation, blend and balance. Students will respond to questions posed by the faculty orally. Students will be evaluated on participation and their ability to actively engage in the discussion.
      • Reports
        • Example: In a written essay report of a live concert, the student will evaluate a jazz ensemble performance and address current lecture and rehearsal topics. Reports will be evaluated based upon an instructor provided rubric
      • Skill Demonstrations
        • Example: Skill and knowledge of current literature will be assessed through student demonstration and performance of selected musical excerpts. Performances will be evaluated based upon an instructor provided rubric.

      Repeatable

      Yes

      Methods of Instruction

      • Laboratory
      • Lecture/Discussion
      • Distance Learning

      Lab:

      1. Instructor will guide students through selected excerpts of current literature in rehearsal, while questioning them on appropriate stylistic considerations including intonation, blend, balance, and rhythmic accuracy.

      Lecture:

      1. Instructor will play recorded examples of current rehearsal literature. Through instructor guided and focused listening, students will be asked to identify demonstrated jazz ensemble performance techniques.

      Typical Out of Class Assignments

      Reading Assignments

      1. Study and analyze assigned musical selections and demonstrate an understanding of musical concepts presented in the assignment through active participation in a class discussion. 2. Read a critique published in a music periodical or journal of a jazz ensemble performance and report your findings to the class.

      Writing, Problem Solving or Performance

      1. Study, interpret, and practice assigned musical selections and demonstrate, through in-class performance, improvement of skills through active participation in class rehearsals. 2. Write a critical review of a recent performance of this ensemble. Include aspects and effectiveness of pre-concert preparation as demonstrated throughout the performance and address public response.

      Other (Term projects, research papers, portfolios, etc.)

      Required Materials

      • Jazz Sketch Pad
        • Author: Robert Claire
        • Publisher: Whole Rest Music Co.
        • Publication Date: 2005
        • Text Edition: 1st
        • Classic Textbook?: No
        • OER Link:
        • OER:
      • Improvisation in the Jazz Ensemble
        • Author: Zachary B. Poulter
        • Publisher: Alfred Music Company
        • Publication Date: 2008
        • Text Edition: 1st
        • Classic Textbook?: No
        • OER Link:
        • OER:
      • The Jazz Standards: A Guide to the Repertoire
        • Author: Ted Gioia
        • Publisher: Oxford University Press
        • Publication Date: 2012
        • Text Edition: 1st
        • Classic Textbook?: No
        • OER Link:
        • OER:

      Other materials and-or supplies required of students that contribute to the cost of the course.

      Appropriate musical selections are studied and performed. All music selected will be of a high artistic caliber, typically professional or university level compositions. Use of sheet music provided by instructor from Music Department score library.