The JZ School is offering a unique and intensive two-week jazz program during the summer months for students 13 to adult and with at least one year of experience on their instruments. Students will learn the ins and outs of jazz and improvisation as well as develop a greater understanding and awareness of this incredible art form through classes such as jazz theory, jazz improvisation, composition and intensive instrument training. They will also gain valuable playing and performance experience by taking part in different musical ensembles like jazz, blues, rock, Latin percussion and African drumming ensembles.
The Faculty of the JZ School consists of world-class performing jazz musicians such as Coco Zhao, Alec Haavik, James Danderfer, Lawrence Ku and JQ Whitcomb, all mainstays of China’s blooming jazz scene. Visiting artists from around the world will also be invited to share their jazz knowledge with students.
The JZ School offers serious musical training in a fun and encouraging environment. If you’re serious about music, you won’t want to miss this summer jazz camp!
Program outline:
All students will take Fundamentals of Music or Jazz Theory, Jazz Seminar and Jazz Ensemble. In addition they will choose one elective class and one elective ensemble. Classes and ensembles will run for 10 days, after which will be a closing student concert and party.
Course Descriptions:
Fundamentals of Music: Students will learn the most basic principles of music, such as how to read standard music notation, introductory chord and scale theory, and basic concepts in music listening and understanding. This course will create a solid foundation for those just starting out on their musical journey, either as a player or a listener.
Jazz Theory: In this course the students will learn the fundamentals of jazz harmony and scale theory, the tools with which to create music. As part of this process, students will analyze songs and learn to write songs of their own. Ear training is also an essential part of this course. Students will learn to recognize by ear the different musical intervals and eventually the various types of scales and chords.
Jazz Improvisation: Developing the art of improvisation is essential to the jazz musician. This course is an overview of techniques and concepts used for musical improvisation. Students will also listen to and analyze the styles of some of the masters of jazz. In this way, students will learn to develop their own creative potential and ultimately find their own musical voice.
Jazz Composition and Arranging: This course is offered for more advanced students. Students will learn the craft of composition through studying compositions of jazz masters as well as writing compositions of their own. Concepts of form and structure will be explored as well as strategies of arranging for different instrumental ensembles.
Guitar/Piano/Vocal Lab: Intensive instrument instruction with one of our guitar, piano or voice faculty (subject to enrollment quotas).
Private instruction: Intensive private instrument training with one of our faculty (subject to extra fee).
Jazz Seminar: Run by different members of the JZ School Faculty, Jazz Seminar will serve as a forum for all students and faculty. It will cover a range of topics, such as jazz history and appreciation, and will include masterclasses and performances by faculty and visiting artists as well as informal jam sessions.
Ensemble Descriptions:
Jazz Ensemble: Start swinging on the standard jazz repertoire and learn to play in various styles such as bebop, funk and Latin.
Blues Band: From Muddy Waters to BB King to Etta James, students will learn to play the blues.
Latin Percussion: Learn about the diverse and fascinating music of Latin America. Students will learn to play such instruments as the timbales, djembe, congas and claves, and explore styles such as samba, bossa, salsa, rumba, cha cha cha and more.
African Drumming: Learn the propulsive drumming tradition of West Africa with its complex and “melodic” polyrhythms. Students will play on an assortment of hand percussion instruments such as the djembe, dunumba and kenkeni.
Fees and Timetable:
Summer Camp fee: 6,300rmb
Session A: July 7-21
Session B: Aug 4-18
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