Registration for this course is now open!
These are online music classes, taught using Zoom
Through video and audio recordings as well as demonstrations, trumpeter/pianist/composer Alan Matheson takes you on a lively exploration of the instruments, key players and the roles they take in creating the electrifying genre of jazz. Sign up for the classes that interest you most, or enroll in the entire series of 6 for $150 (a saving of $60!)
| The Voices of Jazz | Apr 5 |
| Vocalists were the very first jazz musicians and their influence helped create what became modern popular singing. This class will feature the work of Bessie Smith, Billie Holiday, Louis Armstrong along with newer jazz vocal stars like Cécile McLorin Salvant and Bria Skonberg | |
| Trumpets, Cornets and Flugelhorns | Apr 19 |
| Trumpet has long been the “lead” instrument in many jazz groups-large and small. This class will feature such leading brass players as Louis Armstrong, Dizzy Gillespie, Miles Davis and Ingrid Jensen. | |
| Trombones | May 3 |
| Early jazz trombonists like Jack Teagarden and Jimmy Harrison helped develop the trombone as an important solo instrument. Along with their music, this class will also present the timeless work of J.J. Johnson, Melba Liston and the new Spanish artist Rita Payés. | |
| Clarinets | May 17 |
| A staple instrument of the earliest New Orleans band, the clarinet reached it’s peak in popularity during the “Swing Era” via the playing of musicians like Barney Bigard and Benny Goodman. In recent years, talented players like Anat Cohen and Canada’s Phil Nimmons have also created a place for the clarinet in modern jazz. | |
| The Saxophone “Family” | May 31 |
| For many listeners, the saxophone is synonymous with the “sound of jazz”. From the legendary soprano saxophonist Sidney Bechet to influential “giants” of the saxophone like Charlie Parker and John Coltrane, the saxophone’s primacy as an important instrument in jazz is unquestionable. We will also hear from contemporary sax masters Julia Nolan and Juli Woods. | |
| The Rhythm Section: pianists, guitarists, bassists and drummers | Jun 14 |
| The rhythm section is the musical heart of almost every jazz ensemble. We will explore the musical approach of some the most famous and influential rhythm sections in jazz including: Count Basie’s, the Oscar Peterson Trio, the Bill Evans Trio as well as important soloists like guitarists Charlie Christian and Emily Remler along with Canadian bassist Jen Hodge’s “All Stars”. | |