curriculum
Jazz Arranging and Composition
Jazz Arranging and Composition
Jazz Arranging and Composition
(1st Semester)
Open to Music Majors and Minors Only. (10041, 10051, 10052)
Upper Division and Graduate Students Only.
Prerequisites: Mus 166, Mus 266, Mus 366, Mus 466
Objectives: This course is designed to present and develop jazz arranging and compositional principles within two contexts:
Instructor: Rick Helzer
Meeting Times: MW 4:00-5:00pm
- Small group writing for three to four horns and rhythm section.
- Introduction and exposition of concepts for large jazz ensemble writing, specifically sax soli and brass ensemble orchestration techniques.
The stylistic considerations of jazz composition require an extensive working knowledge of chord voicings, instrument timbres and orchestration. Many of the principles applicable to small group writing can be modified and expanded for large jazz ensemble composition. Hence, the course materials are designed to move in a chronological sequence from small group to large ensemble.
Just as the great jazz performers are known for their unique sounds and styles, the great jazz composers, in a like manner, can be identified by their unique blendings of melody, harmony and rhythm and timbre. It is my goal to offer direction and encouragement specifically designed to motivate you, the student, to develop your skills and unique voice as an arranger and composer.
Student Resources:
Jazz Arranging and Composition II
Open to Music Majors and Minors Only. (10041, 10051, 10052)
Upper Division and Graduate Students Only.
Prerequisites: Mus 166, Mus 266, Mus 366, Mus 466, Mus 566A
Objectives: In Jazz Arranging/Composition I we developed arranging concepts for small ensemble writing for three to four horns. Sax soli and brass techniques were also introduced. Jazz Arranging/Composition II is devoted to refining large ensemble (i.e. big band) writing techniques. Once again, the class has a twofold purpose:
- To offer practical orchestrational theories and techniques.
- To offer direction and encouragement specifically designed to motivate the student to develop his or her skills and unique voice as an arranger and composer. (It is important to have access to your 566A text for reference and review)
Instructor: Rick Helzer
Meeting Times: MW 4:00-5:00pm
The stylistic considerations of jazz composition require an extensive working knowledge of chord voicings, instrument timbres and orchestration. Many of the principles applicable to small group writing can be modified and expanded for large jazz ensemble composition. Hence, the course materials are designed to move in a chronological sequence from small group to large ensemble.
Just as the great jazz performers are known for their unique sounds and styles, the great jazz composers, in a like manner, can be identified by their unique blendings of melody, harmony and rhythm and timbre. It is my goal to offer direction and encouragement specifically designed to motivate you, the student, to develop your skills and unique voice as an arranger and composer.
