What is the course about?

A jazz approach to clarinet playing. In these sessions you will learn to listen to jazz and play in the style. Repertoire will include classic tunes such as “All of me”, “St. Louis Blues”, “Georgia on my mind” and “Little Sunflower”. Live online sessions.

This is a live online course. You will need:
– Internet connection. The classes work best with Chrome.
– A computer with microphone and camera is best (e.g. a PC/laptop/iMac/MacBook), or a tablet/iPad/smart phone/iPhone if you don’t have a computer.
– Earphones/headphones/speakers.
We will contact you with joining instructions before your course starts.

What will we cover?

– clarinet technique: sound production, articulation, and jazz phrasing
– chord/scale relationships (harmony) and guide tones
– playing standard tunes with backing tracks or piano
– improvisation.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to…

– have improved your understanding of how and what to practice and listen to
– have increased your understanding of chords and scales and how they relate
– be more confident about interpreting jazz tunes
– be more confident about soloing over a chord sequence
– have learned some jazz terminology.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

You will need a working knowledge of major and minor scales and arpeggios on the instrument. Students should have completed clarinet level 3, and more experienced players will benefit from this course if they are new to playing jazz.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

With tutor demonstration, music resources available in the google classroom, and playing your clarinet along to piano accompaniment or backing tracks. Some reference to guide recordings. Some improvising with guidance and encouragement.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

Play your clarinet, and have manuscript paper, pencil and eraser. All music materials will be available in the google classroom.

When I’ve finished, what course can I do next?

City Lit offers clarinet courses up to advanced level and ensembles.
You may be also interested in Jazz harmony and ear training, and improvisation in classical music styles.