Morley Jazz Orchestra

When & Where

20 April 2024 - 6 July 2024 ( 27.5 hours, 11 weeks )
Morning, Saturday
View course timetable
Waterloo Centre

Quick Facts

Availability Late starts accepted
Tutor Richard Pywell
Course Code W23JPMA07C
Suitable For 19 year olds and up are permitted on this course

What you will learn

A practical performing course for advanced players, with the additional opportunity for orchestra members to compose and arrange for the orchestra. Join in any term subject to tutor approval

Learning Outcomes

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

To play in the jazz idiom to a high standard
To improve awareness of your instrument's particular role within a large jazz ensemble (up to 17 players)
To improve your flexibility and responsiveness to changes of style, tempo and meter

Cost

Full fee

£230

Concession fee

£175

Class format and activities

As a member of the Orchestra, you will rehearse pieces selected from the unique Morley Jazz Orchestra library, and from time to time sight-read new pieces composed or arranged for the Orchestra by members or associates of Morley Jazz Orchestra. The Orchestra occasionally gives public concerts, both within Morley College and at other venues, offering live performing experience. Verbal feedback will be given by the tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At various points during the course both you and your tutor will be asked to assess in writing the progress you have made. Members are also encouraged to compose and/or arrange music for the Orchestra, with general guidance available from the tutor. This course is delivered on site in person, but with optional background resources available online via Moodle.

Entry requirements

There are no formal requirements but members must be competent on their instruments and be able to read music to a good standard. Tutor approval is required prior to joining the Orchestra; you may be invited to ‘sit-in’ with the Orchestra on a "try-out" basis. Instrumentation of this ensemble is 5 saxophones (Alto/Tenor/Baritone), 4 Trumpets, 4 Trombones, Bass Trombone, Drums, Bass (acoustic or electric), and guitar (amplified). Please note that (unusually for a "big band" line-up) there are no keyboard/piano parts. Membership of this ensemble normally operates on the basis of a single player on each part; in exceptional circumstances players may double-up on a part.

What you need to know before you enrol

Due to the nature of the instruments/content of the course you might sometimes be exposed to high volume levels. We strongly encourage everyone to bring a pair of ear plugs to every lesson.

What you need

Your instrument, and a pencil (2B recommended). Music stands, drum kit, and backline are provided. Brass players are also encouraged to mutes as appropriate.