JAZZ ARRANGING

MUSIC 331

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

MUSIC 229

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.

MUSIC 531

Examine musical improvisation from performers and select repertoire primarily from the Jazz Canon. Explore harmonic, melodic, rhythmic, and cultural expansion into the 20th and 21st centuries of improvisational performance practice. Learn elements needed to transform from a performer into a viable and competent improvisor. Emphasis on cross-cultural understanding and interdisciplinarity.

MUSPERF 457

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

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.