Instrumental Jazz

Instrumental Jazz

Advanced Jazz Journey Residency
for advanced instrumental students
with John Blake Jazz Ensemble

In the introductory assembly given by the John Blake Jazz Quartet, students view jazz concepts of rhythm, melody, harmony, and improvisation through an entirely new perspective, as they learn how jazz has been influenced by multiple cultures. During the workshops, instrumental students learn about the cross-cultural influences on jazz. John demonstrates to students how, long before the United States came into being, the elements that would eventually create jazz were brewing abroad. Only the African influence is widely recognized in early jazz through the powerful impact of the institution of slavery in the United States, and the pivotal role played by African American musicians in creating this new genre. As jazz developed, artists’ fascination with the great rhythmic wealth of Arab and Indian music gave rise to new worlds of jazz styles.

This residency is most appropriate for advanced instrumental students, as John examines these influences in greater depth while bringing students through a rigorous practical program that emphasizes the building blocks of improvisation. The goals of this residency include not only improved instrumental skills, but an awareness of the far-flung roots of American jazz. On the final day, workshop students perform with the John Blake Jazz Ensemble.

Fundamentals of Jazz Residency
for beginning to advanced instrumental students
with the Pos-Jordan Jazz Ensemble
with the Galante & Pope Harp-Sax Duo

Instrumental students of any skill level will enjoy and learn from master jazz musicians, including Dave Posmontier, Leon Jordan, Gloria Galante, Odean Pope, Tyrone Brown, and Bob Howell. Each residency is tailored to meet the needs of the students and complement the music teacher’s curriculum. These teaching artists break down the jazz into its component parts. Student skills are advanced through such activities as:
o Rigorous instrumental exercises based on different modes, scales, arpeggios and harmonic patterns,
o Music notation and composition exercises,
o Mock radio shows and interviews,
o Vocal exercises that include improvisation,
o Injury prevention techniques, including appropriate warm-up & cool-down exercises.

Both ensembles can work with all levels of instrumental students, including those who have no previous knowledge of jazz music. Additionally, the workshop students do not need to play the same instruments as the ensemble members. The musicians are able to instruct students on any instrumental combinations including horns, reeds, percussion, strings, saxophone choirs, and big bands.

Please call or email the Program Director to discuss the abilities of your students, the ensemble most appropriate to meet your needs, and the focus of your residency program.

The Galante & Pope Harp-Sax Duo can also be joined by a percussionist and bassist.

The Pos-Jordan Jazz Ensemble is led by Dave Posmontier and Leon Jordan, who are accompanied by Tyrone Brown (bass) and Bob Howell (horns).

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