Courses
Compositional Techniques of Bob Brookmeyer
This course is about the study and application of compositional techniques of Bob Brookmeyer as demonstrated through his compositions, improvisations, and teaching methods.
The Music of Charles Mingus
An investigation of the basic elements discovered in the compositional and arranging styles of Charles Mingus. Categorizing and analysis of various works.
The Music of Duke Ellington
A chronological investigation of the music of Duke Ellington and the development of the Ellington Orchestra.
Jazz Composition Internship
Monitored and evaluated professional work experience in an environment related to the jazz composition major.
Jazz Counterpoint 2
Continuation of CP-361. Emphasis on the role that counterpoint plays in jazz composition.
Jazz Counterpoint 1
Study of the process for creating multiline textures in a given melodic and/or harmonic situation. Voice-leading, melodic analysis and embellishment, rhythm, and form.
Directed Study in Jazz Composition
Individualized instruction designed to guide students majoring in jazz composition in the preparation of their graduation projects.
Serial Techniques as Applied to Jazz Composition
Utilization of 12-tone methodology in creating a one-movement concert jazz piece.
Post Bebop Harmonic Innovations
Survey and analysis of music growing out of the bebop jazz era. Extensive study of John Coltrane, Miles Davis, Wayne Shorter, and Thelonious Monk.
Jazz Composition 3
Composition of multisection extended jazz compositions. Discussion of form and orchestration as it applies to extended composition in jazz.
Jazz Composition 2
Composition of non-song-form jazz pieces based on motivic development. Discussion of form and content as it applies to episodic composition in jazz.
Jazz Composition 1
A systematic approach to the art of composing in the jazz idiom. Exploration of melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic principles. Standard jazz song form. Analysis of jazz standards.
Indian Music Styles and Techniques for Jazz and Contemporary Composition
The class will expose students to and survey the two main Indian classical music systems: Hindustani (North Indian) and Carnatic (South Indian) along with Konnikol (South Indian rhythmic solfege).
Jazz Fusion Composition and Arranging for Small Ensemble
Through the study of major artists and recordings, the student will identify the compositional and instrumental practices of the jazz fusion idiom and apply those to writing assignments and project
Advanced Jazz Arranging for Large Ensemble
Extended applications of standard big band scoring techniques. Analysis of devices found in the compositions of major jazz writers.
Jazz Arranging for Small Ensemble
Jazz arranging techniques for the rhythm section and various small-group instrumental combinations of up to three horns (melodic voices).
Big Band Arranging and Score Analysis
Methodology of big band arranging. Analysis of scores by classic and contemporary big band arrangers. Library assignments and class discussion.
Arranging for Contemporary Jazz Ensemble
The arranging of original tunes combining both traditional jazz techniques and contemporary compositional concepts. Analysis of taped examples.
Contemporary Arranging and Composition
Development of individual writing creativity. Emphasis on the building of confidence in writing clear, memorable lead lines based on standard song forms.
Survey of Jazz Composition and Arranging
A comprehensive study of the evolution of jazz arranging and composition from the 1920s to the present.