Course Description

Jazz Appreciation is a survey of the stylistic and historical elements of jazz from its earliest beginnings and influences through the contemporary jazz scene. Emphasis is placed on listening to the significant jazz artists and styles of each period of jazz. The class will also introduce students to the many musical characteristics, techniques, and terms found in the jazz tradition, as well as their historical significance. No musical background or training is assumed or required. Group 1 course.

Credit Hours

3

Contact Hours

3

Lecture Hours

3

General Education Outcomes supported by this course

Communications - Direct

Course Learning Outcomes

Knowledge:

• Identify historical jazz styles by knowing the musical characteristics of each period and aurally recognize the key recordings of each era.
• Identify the instruments of jazz and the roles they play.
• Identify the key performers of each period (aurally recognize), the instruments and the style they played, their key compositions recordings, and their key historical contributions.

Application:

• Explain the concept of jazz improvisation and how it functions in a performance.

Integration:

• Describe, in writing, the musical events and the content of those events, as observed in a live concert from a preapproved list of concert events.
• Formally communicate, through assignments and in class discussions, knowledge of course material.

Human Dimension:

• See themselves as artists.
• Collaborate with others in a creative environment.
• Recognize the personal and societal importance of self-expression and creativity.

Caring - Civic Learning:

• Express interest in music from other cultures and genres.
• Value differences in cultural expressions of creativity.
• Recognize the role music plays as an expression of social concerns.

Learning How to Learn:

• Read study effectively.
• Frame useful questions.
• Develop educational goals.
• Direct/regulate their own learning.
• Learn through collaboration.