workshops

The artist composes or arranges music especially for a jazz ensemble. The ensemble can be of any size, from a trio to a traditional big band. The ensembles are usually high school or college ensembles but are not limited to them. The artist rehearses and performs with the ensemble. The performance is conducted by either the artist or the ensemble’s own conductor.

The history of Jazz is demonstrated through familiar children’s songs and car-toon themes. The workshop is a participatory activity utilizing African children’s songs and stories to show the roots of jazz. This can be a 45 min. (brief) or a week-long residency. If a longer residency is chosen, those children who play instruments have workshops of their own with the artist where they learn the songs used to demonstrate the history of jazz. They are then able to participate in the demonstrations for the larger body of children. Children’s ages range from grades K-12.

The artist works with area musicians, elementary students through college, as well as professional musicians. The artist talks about, demonstrates and teaches improvisational techniques. This workshop is useful for all levels of musicianship and can also reach out to the classical musician. This workshop can also lead into a jam session.

This class is organized for a limited number of students. All ability levels are welcome. This class is available for bass, keyboards, drums/percussion and reeds.

This workshop demonstrates techniques used by working surviving musicians. With insights into working in studios, film scoring, grant writing and touring.