MUSC 364
JAZZ ENSEMBLE METHODS
Catalog Entry
MUSC 364. Jazz Techniques I. (1 – 2cr.)
Three hours lecture/laboratory. Prerequisite: MUSC 112 or permission of instructor.
Development of skills and knowledge in the fundamentals of performing and improvising
in the jazz idiom. Provides an overview of the methods and materials necessary for
the development of high school/middle school jazz ensemble programs. Topics include
Jazz styles and phrasing, jazz theory, ensemble directing skills, pedagogical techniques
and development of improvisation through listening, analysis, transcription and performance.
At least four hours of observation/participation in public school music classes are
required.
Detailed Description of Content of Course
This course focuses on the following:
- Overview of the history and development of jazz music.
- Development of a philosophy of jazz education.
- Development of an understanding of jazz styles.
- Survey of appropriate literature and materials for middle school and high school jazz
ensembles.
- The development of a planned course of study for a middle school and/or high school
jazz ensemble program.
- Rehearsal techniques for the jazz ensemble.
- The development of personal competency in improvisation including:
- The understanding of chord symbol notation.
- Knowledge of the scales and modes commonly used in improvisation.
- The understanding of chord/scale applications.
- The demonstration
- The demonstration of multiple and varied techniques in improvisation.
- The teaching of improvisation to students in school jazz ensembles.
- Use of technology for playing, recording, arranging and teaching within the jazz medium.
- Advocacy for the inclusion of Jazz curricula and the benefits of music
- Legal and Ethical Issues in Education
- Copyright
- Use of technology
- Other issues related to teaching
Detailed Description of Conduct of Course
The course includes reading and listening assignments, discussion, lecture, papers,
class presentations, micro-teaching, and exams – both performance-based and written.
Goals and Objectives of the Course
At the conclusion of the course, the student will:
- Discuss the historical development of jazz.
- Articulate a philosophy of jazz education.
- Analyze the characteristics of different jazz styles.
- Describe procedures for selecting appropriate literature for the school jazz ensemble.
- Develop a planned course of study for a middle school and/or high school jazz ensemble
program.
- Demonstrate effective rehearsal techniques and procedures for instructing school jazz
ensembles.
- Model methods for teaching improvisation to students.
- Understand the technology available in the playing, recording, arranging and teaching
within the jazz medium
- Advocate for the jazz program in the public school as an important and necessary
curricular strand and a uniquely American art form
- Articulate and understanding of the Legal and Ethical Issues in Education
- Apply learned information and techniques to the National Standards for Arts Education
(Music).
- Apply learned information and techniques to the Virginia Standards of Learning (SOLs).
Assessment Measures
Assessment will include oral and/or written tests, projects, micro-teaching evaluations,
homework and performance-based examinations.
Other Course Information
Approval and Subsequent Reviews
DATE ACTION REVIEWED BY
Revised April, 2009