School
Liberal Arts
Division
Fine & Performing Arts
Department
Music
Academic Level
Undergraduate
Course Subject
Music
Course Number
121
Course Title
Jazz Improvisation 1
Credit Hours
2.00
Instructor Contact Hours Per Semester
32.00 (for 15-week classes)
Student Contact Hours Per Semester
32.00 (for 15-week classes)
Grading Method
A-E
Pre-requisites
Read Music
Catalog Course Description
First of four semesters of jazz improvisation in which skills are developed through the study of jazz theory and the performances of a variety of jazz styles in a small group, jazz combo setting.
Goals, Topics, and Objectives
Goal Statement
This course is intended to develop individual and ensemble skills necessary for successful performing in small group performances of jazz music.
Core Course Topics
- Chord/melody relationships
- Scale patterns derived from chords
Core Course Learning Objectives (Separated)
- Perform ascending and descending major and related minor (harmonic) scales (0-1 sharps/flats) on:
- vocalists: voice & piano (one octave, single line)
- percussionists: any keyboard instrument (one octave, single line)
- pianists: piano (two octaves, both hands in octaves)
- all other instrumentalists: own instrument (one octave)
- Perform iim7-V7-Imaj7 arpeggios in same keys as #1 above
- Perform ascending and descending blues scales in same keys as #1 above
- Improvise utilizing major/minor scales over iim7-V7-Imaj7 chord progressions and blues scales over blues progressions
- Perform melodies to standard songs in various jazz styles
- Demonstrate improved tone, technique, musicianship, and ease of confidence in public jazz performance
Assessment and Requirements
Assessment of Academic Achievement
- Class Participation
- Performance, individually and in groups
Credit for Prior College-Level Learning
Other Details
Determined by department
Effective Term
Summer 2014