Big Band Beginners

As a member of the Beginners Big Band, you will rehearse and work on a selected number of pieces chosen by the conductor. As part of the class you will work on improving your sight-reading and your phrasing in the jazz idiom. Occasionally you will be working in sections. In order to ensure that you make the best possible progress on your course there is some ongoing self evaluation as well as teacher feedback (constructive and supportive) which takes place formally and formally over the course of the year.

Please contact the college if you play a rhythm section instrument (Piano, Guitar, Bass, Drums)as places are limited, all other instruments can just show up on the day. You might be required to practise a bit between lessons. Due to the nature of the instruments/content of the course you might be exposed to high volume levels. We strongly encourage everyone to bring a pair of ear plugs to every lesson.

A working instrument, brass should bring mutes if you have them. Piano, Drum-kit and amps are provided.

This course is designed to accommodate students with mixed abilities and with different learning goals. Differentiation makes it possible for students to achieve results according to their expectations; therefore learners are encouraged to take the course more than once to improve different aspects of their playing. Students may wish to consider joining one of Morley’s Jazz Workshops, Jazz theory classes and Jazz History classes to consolidate their learning. Alternatively learners should consider one of our other ensembles. Ask your tutor for advice or contact the Music Department.