COURSE DESCRIPTION

Extends the improvisational performance skills of the student in the standard jazz repertoire through the use of techniques based on harmonic progressions, rhythmic patterns, and scalar and arpeggio patterns. Includes the practical application of modal theory to standard jazz and popular repertoire. Lecture 2 hours. Laboratory 2 hours. Total 4 hours per week.

GENERAL COURSE PURPOSE

The purpose of this course is to provide the student with a thorough foundation in the techniques of improvisation on an advanced level and covers improvisation in the various popular and jazz styles of the day and of the recent past.

ENTRY LEVEL COMPETENCIES

Prerequisites are MUS 159 - "Improvisational Techniques" and MUS 141-142 - "Class Piano I-II".

COURSE OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to extemporize on his major instrument and at the keyboard in a style of high difficulty and for periods of long duration.

MAJOR TOPICS TO BE INCLUDED

1. Advanced Harmonic Analysis of contemporary jazz composition
2. Advanced Melodic Analysis of contemporary jazz composition
3. Study and practice of advanced jazz patterns and formulate
4. Extended section of improvisation
5. Advanced study of modes
6. Advanced study of variation techniques
7. Advanced modulation
8. Principles of Musical Composition in jazz styles

The study of improvisatory techniques in stylistic areas other than jazz, such as Baroque and Early Classical techniques of improvisation.

Revised 10/99