MUSC 434
JAZZ ENSEMBLE
Catalog Entry
MUSC 434. Jazz Ensemble
Three hours rehearsal (1).
Prerequisite: Audition. Exposure, learning and performance of traditional and contemporary styles of music for the jazz ensemble.
Presents formal and/or informal programs throughout the year on and off campus.
Note(s): Humanistic or Artistic Expression designated course. May be taken again for credit.
Open to all students for audition. A maximum of one credit may be used to meet the
large ensemble requirement for music majors.
Detailed Description of Content of Course
The jazz ensemble provides an opportunity for students to perform music written for a full big band (five saxes, four or five trumpets, four or five trombones, and a rhythm section consisting of piano, guitar, bass, drum set and/or other percussion). In addition to that body of literature, vocal charts may be included in the programming for the semester, allowing one or more vocalists the opportunity to participate in the performance of music that is not addressed in vocal studio teaching, but would be a valuable vehicle in the development of the vocalist’s musical knowledge in that idiom. Emphasis is on tight ensemble performance and jazz improvisation skills. Performance at a more advanced level of musical and technical ability is expected of students registered for graduate credit.
Detailed Description of Conduct of Course
1. Auditions to determine part assignments.
2. Sight-reading of potential or selected concert music, although after the parts
are assigned, students should have the music prepared for rehearsal.
3. Detailed rehearsal of concert music. These rehearsals may include full ensemble
participation, smaller sectionals, and/or sectionals outside of the regular class
time.
4. Dress rehearsal(s) in the concert hall for continuity and sound balance.
5. Concert and/or other types of performance(s).
6. Sight reading for the remainder of the semester with a look ahead to the following
semester's program if appropriate.
Goals and Objectives of the Course
At the conclusion of the course, the student will have been exposed, learned and participated in the presentation of music for public performance at the highest possible level of artistic expression. As a result of the instruction toward this performance goal, the student will have developed increased skills in ensemble performance, listening, technique, and style, and will have a greater sense of self-confidence in their individual musicianship.
Assessment Measures
Grades are based upon class attendance, conditional upon active participation; participation in all scheduled rehearsals, and attendance at concerts. Due to the small size of this chamber ensemble, an absence of one person within a section for example creates an unacceptable rehearsal situation for the other players. Therefore, one unexcused absence is all a student is allowed. For each additional unexcused absence, one letter grade will be lowered up to three. Beyond that amount the teacher may revoke parts assignments to that student and/or drop the student from active participation in the ensemble resulting in a grade of “F” for the semester. Excused absences will be made for the following: hospitalization, doctor-ordered bed rest, or a death in the immediate family. Written confirmation is required within 1 week of the absence.
Other Course Information
The student is responsible for the care of all music assigned. This includes replacement of lost/stolen music/materials. If all music and materials are not turned in at the end of the semester a grade of “I” will be awarded. The grade will be changed when the materials are returned or replaced by the student. “I”s revert to “F”s if not cleared. The use of alcohol or drugs prior to concerts or rehearsals is prohibited. By accepting admission to Radford University, each student makes a commitment to understand, support, and abide by the University Honor Code without compromise or exception. Violations of academic integrity will not be tolerated. This class will be conducted in strict observance of the Honor Code. Refer to Student Handbook for details.
Approval and Subsequent Reviews
DATE ACTION REVIEWED BY
May 2006 Reviewed E. Fellin, Chairman
March 01, 2021