Module: MUS5105-20 Jazz Studies 2

Level: 5

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Adam Biggs

Module Tutor Contact Details: A.Biggs@bathspa.ac.uk

Please note that this module is a pre-requisite of the Level 6 module MUS6102-20 Jazz Studies 3.

1. Brief description and aims of module:

Jazz Theory and Arranging. The aim of this module is to develop your understanding of the theoretical and practical concepts in Jazz. This module builds on the Jazz theory component in Level 4 Performance 1 & 2. This module will develop your understanding of harmony through basic keyboard sessions, and you will learn about arranging and instrumentation in jazz. You will consider the different roles of the instruments in both large and small jazz ensembles. As such this module will enable you to further develop your understanding of the jazz tradition and will also further develop your improvisational skills in different ensembles.

2. Outline syllabus

This module develops your theoretical understanding of jazz through weekly workshops and arranging projects. You will learn about common jazz harmonies, chord progressions, voice leading, instrumentation, substitutions, extensions and improvisation. All of these will be explored within an ensemble where you will direct and arrange standard and original repertoire (F.1). You will work towards performing both prepared and unprepared improvisations (S.1 and S.2).

3. Teaching and learning activities

Weekly lecture/workshops plus additional visiting performer workshop/masterclasses

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: A prepared improvisation

• % Weighting: 50%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: An unprepared improvisation

• % Weighting: 50%