Blues represent a great way to warm up any jazz band. In addition to providing the foundation that jazz, rock, and rhythm and blues are built on, the blues progression is simple enough for beginners to explore.
The Jazz Band That Sings Together Swings Together
Tight rhythm and phrasing are hallmarks of any successful jazz ensemble. Singing is a great way to develop a collective sense of articulation and playing “in the pocket.” Singing through parts allows students to develop an aural sense of the music without the struggle of making it sound on their instrument.
Apply Concert Band Warm-Up Concepts to the Jazz Ensemble
If you are like me, your jazz band meets once a week and you are always in a hurry to get things accomplished.
Preparing Your Jazz Band for Festival or Contest
‘Tis the season for festival prep! For many band directors, jazz band happens outside of “regular” rehearsals, and that means preparing for a big performance (like a contest) can be daunting.
4 Methods for Developing Melodic Ideas for Improvisers
One of the biggest skills any improviser should develop is the ability to create melodic ideas. The creation of these licks is integral to the jazz musician, and as teachers and performers, we want to grow this skill as quickly as possible.
Tips to Help Your Students Transcribe Music
I frequently tell my students that I have learned more about music by transcribing it than any book could ever have revealed to me.
Five Ways to Celebrate Jazz Appreciation Month
April is Jazz Appreciation Month. It is also Mathematics Awareness Month and National Poetry Month, among others. Why should we choose to celebrate and appreciate jazz instead of trying to solve quadratic limericks or prove iambic pentameter?
Help Drummers Get to the Heart of Swing
Here’s a clear, stripped-down approach you can use to quickly and effectively get your drum students “swinging” without overloading them with excessive technical baggage.
Get More Out of Your Jazz Band Rehearsal: Warm Up Chops and Ears
Any large ensemble director can relate to the feeling of having too much to do, and not enough time. Productive rehearsals require precise lesson planning.
5 Quick Fixes for Young Jazz Trombonists
Having a strong trombone section can take your big band to the next level. It’s tempting to focus on the shout chorus and the sax soli and leave the trombones to their own devices, but a few simple adjustments can bring your young jazz trombonists up a notch, and add power, balance, and consistency to your horn section.