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Jazz Ensembles (MUSP 1358, 3358, 3359, 5358): Ensembles are by audition only. See Ensembles page.

Beginning Jazz Theory/Ear Training/Improvisation (MUSC 4555): A practical and theoretical course which includes a detailed study of chord/scale relationships, ear training modes, scales and chords, transcription exercises, basic blues forms and AABA forms, reharmonization and scale theory of the major modes, whole tone and diminished scale. Students will also be expected to memorize and improvise over a number of jazz standards, including blues, modal compositions and ii-V7-I tunes, using these theoretical concepts. Prerequisite: Theory 2, Skills 2 or permission of instructor.

Jazz Composition (MUSC 4899): An in-depth exploration of the compositional styles of significant jazz composers throughout history. Using fundamental concepts from jazz theory, students will perform harmonic, melodic, rhythmic and motivic analysis of compositions to determine elements of style. Class projects will involve student compositions in the style of a particular composer. Prerequisite: MUSC 4555 or permission of instructor.

Jazz History (MUSC 5219): Prerequisites: MUSC 2202 and MUSC 2302, or permission of the instructor. The course traces the development of jazz from minstrel show days, ragtime, blues, and big bands through current jazz idioms.

For current students: (Spring 2008 documents in PDF format)

Theory 1 (MUSC 1215): Syllabus

Jazz History (MUSC 5219): Syllabus, Concert Review, Major Project

Lectures (best viewed in Internet Explorer; hit the tab underneath the presentation for full screen: Feb 27, Mar 10, Mar 12, Mar 17, Mar 19, Mar 24, Mar 31, April 2, April 14, April 16, April 21

Jazz Composition (MUSC 4899): Syllabus

Jazz Band (MUSC 1358, 3358, 5358): Syllabus & concert schedule

Jazz Combo I (MUSC 3359): Syllabus & concert schedule

Jazz Combo II (MUSC 3359): Syllabus