Examination arrangement

Course content

Course in main instrument requires significant independent study. Individual instruction includes instrumental skills with an emphasis on improvisation

Course in ensemble includes repertoire development, practice in improvisation, conducting, and technique. During the course the student will receive relevant studio training.

Course in physiology is comprised of health theory, physiology, prevention of strain injuries, as well as exercises in relaxation, concentration, and warming up. The course also includes preparations before performing.

Course in aural training offers a foundation in basic jazz training, through a musical and performing approach, where imitation technique, improvisation and rhythm are essential factors.

Course in music theory consists of a comprehensive introduction to minor-major tonality through roman numeral analysis, functional analysis and analysis of chord changes; analyses of musical works. In addition the student is required under supervision to compose and arrange melodies within the scope of the course. The course is closely connected to the corresponding course in aural training, and will to a great extent serve as a systematic way of making the student aware of the material and the processes at work in aural training. The student's command of the aural and musical aspects of the course are emphasized.

The course in composition is based on the individual's musical generative capacities through aural based composition and collective ensemble processes. The compositions are developed through analysis and the use of compositional tools. Notation of the music is introduced through courses in notation software.

The course in supporting instrument piano is intended to help the students in their work with aural training, composing and music theory. Students with piano as main instrument receive drum set instruction.

The course in jazz history consists of 3 parts that focus on different periods in jazz history:

1. Ca. 1920-1960: New Orleans, Chicago, Swing, Big band, Bebop, Cool.

2. 1960-1980: Modal, Free jazz, Jazzrock/fusion, ECM, continuation of earlier styles.

3. 1980-today: Digitalisation of music and music production, advancement of earlier styles, World music, other.

Learning outcome

Knowledge:

The candidate:

• has knowledge of appropriate techniques for listening, practicing, musical performance preparations, and prevention of strain injuries.
• has knowledge of musical intuition and understanding of the importance of imitation methodology.
• has knowledge of the organization of musical material in general, and aural training material in particular.
• has basic knowledge of composing for own ensembles
• knows how music software can be used as a tool in arranging/composing.
• has knowledge of the main features and knows examples of music in the development of jazz from 1920 to the present day and the development of technologies for sound recording, music production and distribution of music.

Skills:

The candidate:

• shows instrumental/vocal skills required to carry out their artistic intentions
• can work goal-oriented and independently, individually and in ensembles.
• initiates music making in ensembles, and shows ability to musical communication.
• can improvise music.
• has basic skills in playing piano or drumset.
• is able to learn music by listening and imitation.
• can communicate in relevant musical contexts.
• can analyze music aurally.
• has basic skills in arranging, composing and notation.
• can use music software to arrange/compose music.
• can identify and describe the musical features of different styles of jazz and their prominent musicians.
• can articulate their knowledge verbally.

Learning methods and activities

All musicians are fundamentally self-taught. Significant individual effort in all courses is required in order to succeed, particularly in regards to musical and instrumental skills. To be able to take the final exam the student must have a minimum of 80% attendance in all courses.

Course in principal instrument: Individual and group teaching. Instrumental work in the recording studio.

Course in ensemble: Group teaching in projects for shorter periods of time during the study year.

Course in physiology: Individually, lectures ang teaching in small groups.

Course in secondary instrument: Individually and in small groups.

Course in music theory: Lectures and assignments in analysis and composition.

Course in composition: Lectures in style and musical analysis. Performances of the student's own production form the basis for individual tutoring.

Course in jazz history: Lectures and performance of music from different eras.

Compulsory assignments

• Course in principal instrument
• Course in ensemble
• Course in physiology
• Course in aural training
• Course in music theory
• Course in composition
• Course in secondary instrument
• Course in jazz history

Further on evaluation

Practical exam in main instrument, duration 15 minutes.

Specific conditions

Required previous knowledge

Requires admission to the Bachelor's programme in Music Performance Studies, jazz.

Credit reductions