Students in this class work in small to medium-sized jazz combos studying improvisation, arranging, and instrumental performance. Repertoire reflects the many styles and eras of jazz. This course will culminate with a series of performances by student ensembles. Open to all students - no prior experience necessary.

This class offers a hands-on approach to developing basic skills essential to effective improvisation. Through a thoughtfully chosen jazz repertoire, participants will explore the fundamentals of improvisation and essential music theory concepts, including modal improvisation, the blues, ii-V-I progressions, and chord-scale theory. Students will have the opportunity to practice and perform improvisational techniques on their chosen instrument. No prior experience with improvisation is necessary.

In this course, participants will explore a variety of jazz styles through an in-depth study of repertoire. They will examine the characteristics, history, and evolution of different jazz genres while developing their interpretative and performance skills. Through listening, analysis, rehearsal, and performance, students will gain a deeper understanding of stylistic nuances, phrasing, and improvisational approaches. Recommended for students with prior experience in jazz improvisation.

This class will introduce music theory & ear training basics. From note names of the treble, bass, and alto clefs to simple meters, key signatures, and an introduction to the elements of rhythm, students will begin to build their music theory toolbox. Students will challenge their ears to hear melodic and rhythmic patterns and notate them on the staff. They will sight-sing as a class and experience deep listening to develop their ears and ability to hear modes of music, tempo, and instrumentation.

This class review then expands upon the basics of music theory and ear training as described in our Music Theory & Aural Skills 1 class. Students will experience: identifying, playing, and writing the different scales and modes, interval training, simple & compound meters & rhythmic development, and an introduction to chords, inversion, melodic writing, and beginning analysis. They will sight-sing as a class and experience deep listening to develop their ears.

"Folk Dancing and Game Song" will focus on the folk traditions of North America and the British Isles. Each participant will experience cooperation with others through 'social dances.' These dances and games have been used for generations to bring people together for celebration and to show respect for each other. In addition, each participant will experience the expressive qualities of music through movement as well as develop their intuition for the beat in music. Our singers and instrumentalists will build community while working expressively together as a team.

Students will participate in popular lawn games and activities, including but not limited to cornhole, giant Jenga, frisbee, bocce ball, and a plethora of other games that will engage students physically and cognitively. There may also be a chance to take a few Yoga classes with Ms. Stocker!

Students will be placed by ability and level to participate in a group piano class. The lab has 10 individual electric pianos, where students will work on their technical development, sight reading, and musicianship through piano repertoire. Each student will receive both individualized and group instruction through this elective.

Discover a brand-new way to create music with hands-on experience and coaching from an internationally ranked and touring beatbox artist. Students will acquire strength and flexibility from beatboxing that directly translates to singing technique and proper breath support.