Jazz Ensemble I
This beginner-intermediate level ensemble introduces participants to the art of improvisation through the study and performance of blues and jazz. Starting with the basics (scales and chords), students learn how to approach a melody, distinguish its main notes from its less important ones and improvise on those, and how to move from one chord to the next by building up harmonic vocabulary. At least one year of instrumental study and basic music reading ability (Grade I theory or equivalent) are required; no previous experience in jazz is necessary, although it is helpful if participants are familiar with the jazz genre. All instruments are welcome.
2010-2011 Schedule & Fees
Full Year: October 6, 2010 – June 29, 2011
First Term: October 6 – December 15
Wednesdays 6.30 – 7.30 pm
Tuition Fee (Full Year – 32 weeks)
Ensemble alone: €450
Students also enrolled for private or group lessons: €225
Tuition Fee (First Term – 10 weeks)
Ensemble alone: €160
Students also enrolled for private or group lessons: €80
(Payment plan options are also available – see Enrolment & Fees for details.)
Jazz Ensemble II
This intermediate-advanced level ensemble gives students with some jazz experience a chance to refine and improve their improvisational and harmonic skills. Participants learn more advanced improvisation techniques, including modes, progressions and harmonies, as well as transcribing and aural skills, through the study and performance of jazz standards such as 'Autumn Leaves', 'All the Things You Are' and 'All Blues'. They will also learn more about phrasing, dynamics, harmonic and melodic soloing, motivic development and solo breaks, explore alternative arrangements and different styles, and improve their communication within the group. The ensemble is open to students who have completed Jazz Ensemble I, and to other students by audition. All instruments are welcome.
2010-2011 Schedule & Fees
Full Year: October 6, 2010 – June 29, 2011
First Term: October 6 – December 15
Wednesdays 8 – 9 pm
Tuition Fee (Full Year – 32 weeks)
Ensemble alone: €450
Students also enrolled for private or group lessons: €225
Tuition Fee (First Term – 10 weeks)
Ensemble alone: €160
Students also enrolled for private or group lessons: €80
(Payment plan options are also available – see Enrolment & Fees for details.)
David Mooney, Director
Dave Mooney hails from south Dublin, but his musical pursuits have led him far and wide. He holds a BMus degree from Berklee College of Music in Boston, where he studied with such world-renowned musicians and composers as John Lockwood and Joseph Smith. Dave also holds a diploma in Jazz Performance from the Guildhall School of Music in London. He has appeared, performed and recorded with a vast and varied array of artists, from Sarah Brightman and Jeff Ramsey (Al Jarreau Group) to Sarah Brindell, the Young European Strings and Stambandet (a Scandinavian Folk group). He was one of the founding members of the established New England jazz ensemble 3D4tet, and has recently returned from a successful tour of the Balkans, leading his own jazz quartet. Dave’s performances have included the National Concert Hall, and he was chosen to represent Ireland at the IASJ schools of jazz conference and concert in London. He has worked as a music educator both in the US and Ireland, where he now teaches jazz ensembles, bass, double bass and guitar at the New School.
Enrolment
Enrolment for these ensembles requires a completed enrolment form and full payment of tuition fees.
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