Jazz vocal improvisation
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- Course Code: MF656
- Dates: 20/04/24 - 29/06/24
- Time: 10:30 - 12:00
- Taught: Sat, Daytime
- Duration: 11 sessions (over 11 weeks)
- Location: Keeley Street
- Tutor: Laura Zakian
Course Code: MF656
Choose a start date
Duration: 11 sessions (over 11 weeks)
Please note: We offer a wide variety of financial support to make courses affordable. Just visit our online Help Centre for more information on a range of topics including fees, online learning and FAQs.
What is the course about?
Develop approaches to improvising with jazz tunes and singing over standard chord sequences. There will be regular practice in class to build your improvising confidence and expertise.
What will we cover?
- Some standard chord changes (this will require preparation) and standard tunes.
- Developing your ear and understanding of jazz harmony, time feel and rhythm.
- Learning sample patterns and melodies (this will involve reading notation as well as working by ear).
- Applying the principles of improvising to your interpretation of jazz melodies.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
- receive constructive feedback on your efforts
- enjoy being adventurous in a supportive group of musicians
- internalise jazz language, scales and patterns
- use ideas, strategies and devices to enhance your performance.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
You should be accustomed to singing in the jazz idiom, and will need a good standard of musicianship: sensitivity to time and feel; the ability to follow (and keep up with) a chord progression; and an understanding of technical terms and matters (e.g. major/minor scale, Latin feel).
You will need to follow written and verbal instructions in English and engage in class discussions.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
Vocal and physical warm up. Some listening to recordings and some discussion, but mostly demonstration and practical involvement in group singing tasks and solo efforts. Follow and respond to your tutor and the piano.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
Lead sheets, backing tracks, and other learning resources will be supplied.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
Jazz harmony and ear training, Jazz and Blues singing courses.
Laura is a highly regarded teacher of jazz and popular singing. Although specialising in Jazz, Laura has studied with some of the top vocal teachers nationally and internationally, giving her an in-depth understanding of the techniques applicable to many vocal styles. She has experience of working with top laryngologists, speech therapists, osteopaths and physiotherapists all working in the field of vocal health. Laura has been featured in an article in the Guardian Arts Section, giving instruction in the art of jazz singing and also in the Sunday Telegraph Lifestyle section, helping someone get over their fear of singing. Laura studied jazz and popular singing at Middlesex University and in New York with Nancy Marano from the Manhattan School of Music. Well established on the London jazz scene, Laura has released four well-received albums, each curating fresh and classy readings of the Great American Songbook alongside unexpected pop tunes. She now collaborates with composer Martin Pyne, writing original material for her recently released EP.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.
