When & Where

Quick Facts

  • Availability Yes
  • Tutor Paul Westwood
  • Course Code W23JPMB08C
  • Suitable For 19 year olds and up are permitted on this course

What you will learn

For experienced jazz players (of any suitable instrument) who wish to develop their jazz improvisation skills to an advanced level.

Learning Outcomes

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

  • Explore jazz language using traditional, bebop and contemporary methods
  • Build jazz repertoire
  • Play a broad range of scales and arpeggios
  • Have a better understanding of advanced chord symbols and chord sequences
  • Improvise creatively in a jazz swing-feel style
  • Play appropriate jazz harmony and phrasing to standards
  • Apply different creative structures to solos through a better command of improvisational techniques
  • Perform with greater confidence and skill
  • Understand how to progress to the next level

Cost

  • Full fee
    £185
  • Concession fee
    £140
  • Class format and activities

    Classes will be held at Morley College and are continuous over three terms. Each term is a separate course: Jazz Workshop 2A (from September), Jazz Workshop 2B (from January), Jazz Workshop 2C (from April). The tutor provides handouts for each lesson and demonstrates current coursework, including any details about theory, harmony, rhythm, phrasing, and technique. Students are encouraged to perform each exercise, which the tutor accompanies on guitar, piano or with backing tracks. Play-along backing tracks are provided for homework and personal development. To ensure that you make the best possible progress on your course, feedback, advice, and Q&A sessions are conducted in a constructive and supportive environment.

    Entry requirements

    A reasonable command of your instrument and a basic understanding of chord symbols and harmony: some degree of ability in improvising: some reading skills. Certain students will be working with electronic amplifiers provided by the college, and will be instructed on how to work this equipment safely to avoid health risks. If you need further advice before the start of the course, please contact the Music Department.

    What you need to know before you enrol

    Regular practice between lessons is essential for ongoing progress.

    What you need

    Your instrument and a pen or pencil. Amplifiers for bass and guitar are provided at Morley College.

    What you can do next

    Students may wish to continue this course for a further year to develop their abilities or might to consider joining one of Morley’s Jazz theory classes and Jazz History classes to consolidate their learning. Alternatively learners should consider one of our ensembles. Ask your tutor for advice or contact the Music Department.