Longtime producer/arranger/keyboardist Frank Martin guides students in creating fresh arrangements of jazz standards. A wide range of compositional techniques and musical devices are explored and applied to class assignments including: the use of different rhythmic feels and grooves; reharmonization; form changes; innovative intros, outros, codas and vamps; and alterations to melody and lyrics. Students sing and/or play selected repertoire in a variety of styles and learn how to make even the most common standards sound new. A hands-on class packed with invaluable information! Open to instrumentalists and vocalists. Prerequisites: some knowledge of jazz theory and harmony.

Thursdays 6:30 – 8 pm
FRANK MARTIN (10 weeks) $365

New Class!
Jazz Composers Ensemble

Students analyze classic compositions from various eras, practice composing in these styles, and work on playing their own compositions. Some of the composers studied include Jelly Roll Morton, Duke Ellington, Thelonious Monk, Horace Silver and Charles Mingus.

Mondays 8:15 – 9:45 pm
ERIK JEKABSON (10 weeks) $365

Related WORKSHOPS

Sunday September 26

Composition Workshop with Michele Rosewoman

Many musicians feel they don’t know how to compose. Where to begin? Experienced composers often feel ”stuck” — out of ideas or perspective on how to develop an idea they have. Visiting instructor Michele Rosewoman demonstrates that all you need is a starting point and just about any will do. With instructor’s guidance students begin new compositions during this 3-hour workshop and receive personal guidance towards realizing their unique personal preferences and how to apply them to the process of composing. Students learn practical approaches to developing their compositional ideas and how to further the conception of their individual pieces. Instructor utilizes recorded music to discuss and convey compositional goals and effects, and demonstrates methods for adjusting, elaborating upon and extending musical thought through melodic, harmonic and rhythmic possibilities and thematic development. Students are also invited to bring in compositions for feedback on the honing, polishing and developing of their ideas. Students should bring their instruments, music paper and a recording device. For all aspiring composers at all levels.

Noon – 3 pm 
MICHELE ROSEWOMAN $30 Jazzschool students/$45 others

New York based pianist/composer Michele Rosewoman has performed with great musicians from both the jazz and Latin music worlds, including Rufus Reid, Reggie Workman, James Spaulding, Billy Hart, Gary Bartz, Jimmy Heath, Julian Priester, Julius Hemphill, Oliver Lake, Celia Cruz, Cuban master drummer/vocalist Orlando ‘Puntilla’ Rios, Andy Gonzalez and Pedrito Martinez.

What Makes a Great Jazz Arrangement?

How does one create a great arrangement, whether for trio or big band? The element of surprise is the major factor. Pianist/educator Mark Levine deconstructs and explains why arrangements like Miles Davis’ “Someday My Prince Will Come,” Ahmad Jamal’s “The Boy Next Door,” and Mulgrew Miller’s “Carrousel” rise to classic status. For all instruments.

2 – 4 pm 
MARK LEVINE $30 Jazzschool students/$45 others