MUA 159/359/559 JAZZ ENSEMBLE

The Jazz Ensemble is a performance group that explores the entire repertoire for the big band, including (but not limited to) dance band, swing, and contemporary and current charts. This ensemble maintains a demanding performance schedule and it is expected of all members to perform at each concert and run-out.

To give the student access to an ensemble directed in a professional environment. To increase the student's skills in sight reading, improvising, theory, ensemble playing, stylistic concepts, etc. This is also an outlet for new charts by students with an emphasis on performance of the charts that meet the qualitative criteria.

All doubles/accessories are required and expected of all musicians.
Mutes: harmon, straight, cup
Flugel horns
Soprano sax, flute, clarinet, bass clarinet doubles
Electric bass
PENCILS

FORMAT:

The ensemble will rehearse Monday through Thursday. As time permits, Wednesday will be used to rehearse with the soloists in the band. It is strongly recommended that soloists utilize the Improvisation Lab for additional work on their respective solos. All band members are welcome to use the lab.

Grading will be based on the student's preparation, musicality, attitude, attendance, and overall ability to work within the structure of the ensemble.

The student's final grade will be drawn from grades received for each component of the course:

POLICIES:

The overall policy of the course is to be prepared for all rehearsals. The rehearsals are for ensemble work, not individualized practice. Always take your music with you for personal practice! It is also expected that the section leaders will call sectionals for rehearsal of section material (preferably, once a week). Notify Tom Wolfe in advance if the section leader would like to have him present for the sectional. REHEARSALS WILL ALWAYS START ON TIME.

I reserve the right to change personnel if the musicians are not meeting the expectations of the ensemble.

PERFORMANCES:

Jazz Standards Combo (an off-shoot of the Jazz Ensemble) performances are not listed below. A schedule can be found at the Jazz Standards Combo section.