Jazz Theory for Improv
This combo will meet weekly on Tuesdays running September 23rd to December 2nd.
Jazz Theory for Improv is a yearlong improvisation studies course taught by Seattle luminary and internationally recognized pianist, composer, and author, Randy Halberstadt. Randy brings over 30 years of experience teaching jazz at Cornish College of the Arts in Seattle.
Class Content: Bring your instrument and get ready to dive in—this is a hands-on course where music theory and ear training come alive through real-time application. We’ll take core concepts, tailored to the students in class, and put them into practice by improvising over tunes and classic chord progressions. Some sessions will focus on building conceptual understanding, others will be all about playing. Along the way, we’ll listen to recordings, sing (yes, singing is part of the fun!), and explore new ways to hear and respond musically.
Studies may include:
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Scales: major, harmonic minor bebop, melodic minor, blues, whole tone, diminished
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Basic chords
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Improvising with chord tones
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Exploring scales over chords
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Picking out melodies by ear
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Analysis of standard chord progressions
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Composing chord progressions
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Bebop improvisation
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Motivic development
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Lead line improvisation
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Random major and minor II-V-I’s
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Most consonant scales
You might find Randy Halberstadt’s Metaphors for the Musician (Sher Music) a helpful companion, but it’s optional. All necessary handouts and materials will be provided.
Homework: Homework is comprised of playing assignments based on the class studie and individual needs.
Student Requirements: Punctual attendance and desire to learn and improve. Students supply their instruments.
Important Note Regarding Combo Placement: Jazz Night School is dedicated to finding the best learning experience for everyone involved. Some of the criteria we consider in determining combo placements include: matching ability levels within groups, compatibility of individuals in the groups (students and instructors), allowing the highest number of students to participate, student availability, and date of registration. Despite our best efforts, there is always a chance that an individual may not be able to be placed in a combo.
A Note for Drummers: This course is not recommended for percussionists but all are welcome. While we’ll touch on rhythmic concepts, most of our focus will be on scales, chords, intervals, and harmonic relationships.
This is a 10 week course meeting in person once a week for 90 minutes.
Completion of either The Language of Chord Symbols and/or Totally II Vs, or equivalent knowledge, is required to enroll in this course. Students should have knowledge of major scales and familiarity with triad and seventh chord construction. If you are not sure you are ready, contact Tim Carey at timc@jazznightschool.org.
Beginning, intermediate, or advanced
Jazz Night School is a vibrant and welcoming community-based nonprofit music education program that is home to hundreds of like-minded learners. Our school offers great opportunities to meet other dedicated jazz students and artists. Whatever your skill level, we have a place for you.
Schedule a skills assessment
We strongly encourage all new students to schedule a complimentary skills assessment so we can help you figure out the best place to start.
What is it like to learn with us?
As a student at Jazz Night School, you'll be part of a friendly, supportive community that shares a love and deep appreciation for jazz music in all its various forms. Your development as a musician is our primary educational goal. Whatever your skill level, our program can help you improve your musicianship and discover your own unique musical voice. For new students, we provide a complimentary introductory session that includes a skills assessment. This session gives you a chance to share your goals and interests and helps us point you to the most appropriate offerings. Each quarter we offer a wide variety of classes and workshops on improvisation, harmony, ear-training, and specialized topics. Our online classes feature lots of discussion and opportunity for questions and answers. There are no grades at Jazz Night School; rather, instructors give each student individual feedback on an ongoing basis. Everyone's effort is valued. When public health restrictions are relaxed, we will return to offering group ensemble opportunities that culminate in a short performance at a local nightclub. This is a fun-filled evening where friends and family come to applaud student efforts and cheer them on to new heights of musical expression!
We understand that most of our students have important life commitments such as work and family. There may be days that you have to deal with a sick child or a pressing work deadline and you aren't able to put in as much practice time as you would have liked. We get it. Our goal is to support your musical aspirations at whatever pace you are able to sustain at this time in your life.
Instructors
Jazz Night School instructors are some of the finest musicians and educators in Seattle’s vibrant jazz community. Some have learned their art through old school traditions and others have studied at premier institutions such as Berklee College of Music, Eastman, Indiana University, Manhattan School of Music, New England Conservatory, and University of Miami.
All Jazz Night School policies must be adhered to for enrollment, policies can be found here.