If you are a saxophone player and are looking to develop your skills in improvisation, group playing, and performance, Berklee's Saxophone Weekend is for you. Improve your playing through master classes, group lessons, and ensembles. Director of the program, Woodwind Department chair Bill Pierce, has performed and recorded with such notable artists as Art Blakey, Branford Marsalis, Wynton Marsalis, and Tony Williams and has been featured at major international jazz festivals.
Who are the instructors? The classes and workshops will be taught by Berklee's Woodwind Department faculty and special guest artists.
What's the schedule?
Group Lessons–These will address topics normally included in traditional private saxophone lessons. You will receive instruction in instrumental technique (tone, finger speed, intonation, tongue speed and placement, jazz articulation, etc.), practice habits, and other related topics.
Master Classes–These will be lectures/demonstrations by faculty members or guest artists on various aspects of performing, improvisation, and personal experience. There will be a wide variety of topics, and at times there may be group participation.
Questions and group discussion will encompass part of the class, providing you with an opportunity to explore the artists' opinions and strategies for success. You'll also be able to connect with them in a personal, relaxed, musically engaging situation.
Ensembles–You will have the opportunity to play in group settings with students of similar playing abilities accompanied by a rhythm section. You will perform in a concert on the final day of the event.
Theory and Improvisation–You will be taught music theory and how to apply it to improvisation. This class will provide you with a basic understanding of chord/scale relationships in direct correlation with the improvement of one's aural skills.
Jam Sessions–These jam sessions will be relaxed playing situations with a rhythm section provided.
On Friday, June 19, and Saturday, June 20, the Saxophone Weekend faculty will perform in concert. On Sunday your family and friends are invited to attend the program finale, during which you will perform in a closing concert.
Will I be able to use the college's facilities?
While you are at Berklee College of Music for the Saxophone Weekend, your Berklee ID card (issued at registration) will provide you with access to our extensive facilities, including the Stan Getz Media Center and Library, the Learning Center, and practice rooms.
Where will I eat and sleep?
When we have processed your application, you will be sent information and an application for residence hall housing. Most program participants elect to stay in the Berklee residence halls. However, acceptance to the program does not guarantee a residence hall space. Space is limited. To optimize your chances for on-campus housing, you must return the housing application immediately upon receiving it. To be eligible to live in the residence hall, you must be 15 years of age by the start of the program. If you are applying to the program after mid-May, 2009, call the Housing Office at 617 747-2292 to find out if residence hall space is still available.
