Jazz Band Course Outline

2010-2011 LHS Jazz Band Course Outline

Meeting Times: O Hour 6:40-7:40am

Our Mission Statement

The LHS Jazz Ensemble is a group of dedicated musicians who continuously uphold the highest musical standards, which enable us to speak the language of Jazz. It is our goal to outline the traditional process, which makes up Jazz performance, through the study of influential artists and composers.

Goal and Objectives

1) Musicians will learn the concept of swing and many other styles from an aural perspective.

2) Musicians will develop the traditional aspect of the Jazz language.

3) Musicians will develop the social aspect of the Jazz language.

4) Musicians will understand the historical background of Jazz in chronological order.

5) Musicians will uphold the utmost respect for the music’s masters by understanding the importance of listening to become fluent speakers of this language.

Jazz Transcription
A definition of transcription in Jazz terms is to hear a recording of an improvised solo, learn that solo on your instrument, and then write out the solo in music notation. You will all be given a part of a solo to learn on your instrument. You will be asked to learn that solo by ear. These projects will be throughout the year.

Biography Presentation

Another required project will consist of a presentation based on the biography of a jazz artist of your choosing. During this, you will discuss the artist in terms of popularity, contribution to the music, who they were influenced by, famous recordings etc. There will be no length requirement. The presentation will be graded on content and accuracy. The student will also have the option to use visuals such as power point, video clips and/or audio aids.
Participation

Fact: Without listening there would not be language. Because you are all mature musicians, you understand the concept of proper rehearsal procedure. Although this is in place there is more to understand. The band can go as far as YOU want it to go if a few things are in place.

1) Learn your charts. At this level, this practice should be second nature. There will be graded spot checks to make sure that your are helping the team and not hindering. We cannot move on until this is 100% understood throughout the whole ensemble.

2) Listen to the music! The only way to learn the art of Jazz improvisation is to listen to music!!!

3) Respect the music! Jazz is an art of great complexity and should be treated with the respect that it deserves. You can do this by putting 100% effort into everything you have read thus far. Be on time, courteous, and set the example, do not be the example!

Materials Needed

1) Pencil for class. Participation grade!!
2) A music manuscript notebook every day!
3) Handout folder (NOT YOUR MUSIC FOLDER)
4) A CD Holder. Please purchase a small one to bring to class on a daily basis.
5) All Mutes All Times-Plungers, buckets, cups, Harman, and straight
6) Reeds, oils, and any other accessories.

I know that we will maintain the high level of intensity and traditions from previous years. I am proud of all the musicians in this upcoming band. I know that you will make our jazz society proud of the musical products that you produce. Swing on!

Mr. Malt

----- IMPORTANT JAZZ BAND LINKS -----
Band Calendar
Jazz Band General Information
Jazz Studies Curriculum
Jazz Band Course Outline