We're still actively developing this site. If you encounter any issues, please report them! - Report an issue

JAZZ THEORY & COMPOSITION

MUSIC 229
Course Description

Introduction to the applied theory of functional tonal and modal jazz harmony; analysis of song forms from the standard jazz repertoire; study of reharmonization techniques, chord substitution, and types of chord voicings; principles of melodic writing and motivic development, jazz counterpoint, and voice-leading considerations; and writing for common instruments in jazz ensembles. Students will analyze compositions from the standard jazz repertoire and apply the principles studied to create their own compositions for small jazz ensemble.

Prerequisites
Satisfies
Credits

Not Reported

Offered

Not Reported

Grade Point Average
3.88

8.55% from Historical

Completion Rate
100%

2.38% from Historical

A Rate
87.5%

4.51% from Historical

Class Size
8

67.44% from Historical

Cumulative Grade Distribution

Instructors (2026 Summr)

Sorted by ratings from Rate My Professors

Similar Courses

JAZZ IMPROVISATION

MUSIC 331

Theoretical concepts, development of aural skills, and analysis procedures related to the jazz idiom. Audition required.

JAZZ IMPROVISATION

MUSIC 332

More advanced theoretical concepts, development of aural skills, and analysis procedures related to the jazz idiom.

JAZZ COMPOSITION AND ARRANGING

MUSPERF 457

Study of music composition and arranging in the jazz idiom. Requires audition.

JAZZ THEORY AND ANALYSIS

MUSIC 629

Introduction to contemporary research into jazz theory through analysis of lead sheet jazz compositions, analysis of large ensemble jazz compositions and improvised solos, and critical readings of jazz theory publications.

JAZZ ARRANGING

MUSIC 329

Survey of standard musical techniques and devices for arranging lead-sheet-based jazz compositions for medium and large jazz ensembles through score study, musical exercises, and arranging projects for live ensembles. Topics include jazz counterpoint and melody writing; preparing arrangements through outlines and condensed scores; chord substitutions and reharmonization; ranges, timbres, notational and technical considerations of standard jazz instruments; motivic development; voicing techniques, including mechanical, spreads, upper structure triads, and voicings in 4ths, 5ths and clusters; and orchestration techniques, including couplings and concerted writing.