Mus 235 Jazz improvisation I – Fall 2006

Prerequisite: Mus 112, Mus136 or consent of the instructor

Instructor : Jerald Shynett

Office : CAB1040 Phone: 962-7728

Office hours : M-F 8:00-8:50 by appointment only

E-mail shynettj@uncw.edu

Grading:

Assignments 20%

Written Tests 20%

Playing Tests 20%

Final 20%

Transcription 20 %

Description: Performance oriented course which explores a variety of methods which will aid the student in gaining a better understanding of the art improvisation.

Objectives:

1. To gain a basic understanding of the jazz language through analysis and performance

2. To construct an improvised solo over common progressions

3. To build a strong foundation in theory and tune learning

Attendance: Students are required to be present at all regular class meetings and exams.

Any unexcused absence over three will result in the dropping of a letter grade off your final grade for the course

Course Schedule:

Topic 1 Jazz Theory Fundamentals: triads, seventh chords, modes, functional harmony, etc.

Topic 2 Common progressions: group 1 voicings

Topic 3 The blues progression: group 2 voicings

Topic 4 Blues with alterations group 3 voicings

Topic 5 “All the Things You Are”, group 4 voicings