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When & Where

Quick Facts

  • Availability Late starts accepted
  • Tutor Multiple
  • Course Code W24JPMA04A
  • Suitable For 19 year olds and up are permitted on this course

What you will learn

As Rhythm Section players we spend 80% of our time comping and accompanying others, where as spend 80% of our time practising soloing! This course concentrates on rhythm section playing, each players role in the band, how to comp behind soloists, bass solos, how to play as a rhythm section.Bassist Amy Baldwin leads the course, while jazz drummer Flavio Li Vigni co-leads three sessions per term.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

  • Learn 4 standards from memory
  • Learn your role as a rhythm section player
  • How to effectively comp behind Saxophone solos, bass solos, drum solos
  • Study comping rhythms of great piano players and guitarists
  • How to create walking bass lines
  • Reacting 'in the moment' as an accompanist

Class format and activities

We will learn 4 tunes together, study comping rhythms and techniques and apply them to the tunes we are working with. Especially for rhythm section players: Piano, Bass Drums, Guitar.

Entry requirements

All: ability to read a lead sheet. Pianists/Guitarists: at least 2 different voicing options, an idea about rootless voicing. Bass: ability to create walking lines from a lead sheet. Drums: ability to read rhythms and follow a lead sheet.

What you need to know before you enrol

Listen to as much music as possible, find out what you like and why!

What you need

Bring your instrument. Piano, drum kit and amps provided.

What you can do next

Please consult with the course leader or other members of the music department for ideas on further study. This course should enhance you ability to play in all situations.