|
|
What is Jazz?
"What is Jazz?" is an interactive
lecture-performance presented by the Jazz Standards Combo under
the direction of Thomas Wolfe. Sponsored by the Arts Council
of Tuscaloosa, "What is Jazz?" is presented through
the Spectra Program. It is designed for elementary students,
K-6. The program can last from 25-50 minutes dependent on the
needs of the school. Have presented this program at:
Taylorville Elementary
Cottondale Elementary
Verner Elementary
Pickens High School
Englewood Elementary
Holt Elementary
Maxwell Elementary
Matthews Elementary
Westwood Elementary
Huntington Place Elementary
"What is Jazz" is a brief look into the history of
Jazz. By demonstrating styles and instruments, performing standard
repertoire of Jazz, and explaining the basic components of Jazz,
the elementary students get a taste of this American art form.
Not only is it beneficial to the elementary students, but it
is a strong educational component for the Jazz Studies majors
who present it.
Program
(This is an example of previous presentations)
Perform a blues, i.e.: Tenor
Madness, C Jam Blues, etc.
Discuss the origins of Jazz.
- Blend of African & European cultures.
- Grew out of the Blues
- Began in New Orleans
- Eventually Jazz first emerged as "Dixieland"
Perform Dixieland tune: "Hotter Than That."
- This is an original transcription of a Louis Armstrong composition.
Originally recorded by Louis Armstrong & his
Hot 5
Discuss "Swing" Jazz
- Evolution of Dixieland to Swing
- Components of Swing style
- rhythm
- improvisation
- instrumentation, i.e.: walking bass, comping drums (swing 8th's),
etc.
- each member of the combo talks briefly about their instrument.
- Demonstrate these one at a time until entire combo is playing.
Demonstrate style by applying Swing components to a familiar
tune, i.e.: Santa Claus is Coming to Town, etc.
- Will not tell the students what the tune is, but will have them
guess and sing along once they know the song.
Discuss "Bebop" Jazz
- Basics of style
- Discuss "fathers" of Bebop:
- Charlie Parker & Dizzy Gillespie
Perform Bebop tune: Anthropology, Confirmation, etc.
Question & Answer time.
- The entire presentation is interactive and we field questions
throughout the program. This time is given for the student's
questions that may not be answered during the program, such as:
- How long have we been performing?
-
When did we start taking lessons?
- Do we play other styles of music?, etc.
Briefly discuss the "Fusion" style and perform "Skunk
Funk" by the Brecker Brothers.
For more information call 205-348-6333 or
email Chris Kozak .
|
