MUSIC 84Jazz Ensemble

1 credit · Music · Penn State

Survey and performance of historic and contemporary big band styles. MUSIC 84 Jazz Ensemble (1 per semester/maximum of 8) (GA)(BA) This course meets the Bachelor of Arts degree requirements. MUSIC 84 , Jazz Ensemble may include as many as three sections at some campuses. For example, at a large campus there could be: Centre Dimensions (001), Inner Dimensions (002), and Outer Dimension (003). Each section of MUSIC 84 will consist of a performance groups of 16 to 20 members. Admission to the groups may be by audition. Students may be placed into sections by ability level. The course consists of the study and performance of big band jazz from the mid 1920s to the present. Important composers of the idiom are routinely represented as well as newer contributors. There is a focus on ensemble group sound as well as individual solo improvisation. Part of the learning process includes working on the fundamentals of jazz playing, rhythm, articulation, and harmony. Each learning segment, or unit, is concluded with public performance of the music studied and learned. At some campuses that may mean one performance at the end of the semester. In addition, at a campus with a School of Music, an ensemble such as Centre Dimensions may represent the School of Music at collegiate jazz festivals as an advanced enhancement of the learning experience. Members are expected to learn their individual parts, attend sectionals and rehearsals, and participate in the performances. Music 84 is offered each fall and spring semester at some campuses; at others, less frequently. Details will vary by campus.