Fundamentals of Jazz

Fundamentals of Jazz

Pos-Jordan Jazz Ensemble

This assembly program introduces students of all ages to the origins and performance of the uniquely American art form — jazz.  The ensemble explores both the history of jazz and the role of each individual instrument. The musicians introduce students to the key components of jazz--rhythm, melody, harmony, and improvisation--and offer repertoire in a range of styles from the genre’s greatest composers. Most notably, the Pos-Jordan Jazz Ensemble have a uniquely interactive approach to demonstrating the elements of improvisation, and its importance in the development of jazz as a vibrant, flexible musical form.  They explore the inner workings of jazz composition by composing a piece right on the spot that democratically reflects the contributions of the audience. The more musically astute the audience, the more sophisticated the result will be. The less musically astute the audience, the greater the challenge to the ensemble!  Students participate and offer compositional elements through scat singing, clapping and even playing their own instruments.  This assembly can be modified to reach all targeted audiences from participants who have no musical training or moderate musical training, to the most advanced students of the jazz idiom. The culminating exercise is all about learning to work together to achieve a common goal while enjoying an inspiring musical experience.
 
The Pos-Jordan Jazz Ensemble is led by Dave Posmontier and Leon Jordan, who are joined by Tyrone Brown or Chico Huff on bass and Bob Howell on horns. 

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