Jazz Composers’ Workshop

The objective of the course is to play, direct, and perform original compositions along with published jazz as related to the jazz orchestra. The class will consist of a combination of players and writers/conductors. Students who aren’t playing instruments will learn how to direct a band, whether it is their original music or published works with guidance from the instructor. They will also have band setup, and parts/score preparation responsibilities learning other leadership skills. Instrumentalists will benefit from learning repertoire along with new music and being under the direction of an experienced faculty member who has directed and led their own bands. Emphasis will be given to hearing and expressing your musical ideas with stylistic integrity, as well as melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic accuracy. An end-of-semester concert is usually scheduled. Performers are expected to have high ratings in sight-reading and playing ability. This band will also be a vehicle for guest artists specific to jazz composition.