Fall 2021

Jazz Theory and Improvisation I

Listed in: Music, as MUSI-113

Formerly listed as: MUSI-35

Faculty

Bruce P. Diehl (Section 01)

Description

This is a beginner-level course designed to explore jazz harmony and improvisation from theoretical and applied standpoints. Students will study common harmonic practices, modes and scales, rhythmic practices, and the blues, and will learn the historical contexts in which these practices have developed. An end-of-semester performance of material studied during the semester will be required alongside regular individual meetings with the instructor. A one-hour ear training section will be scheduled outside of regular class meetings. Two class meetings and one ear training section per week. This course is considered a point of entry to MUSI 241.

Students who have not previously taken a course in music theory at Amherst College are encouraged to take a self-administered placement exam on reserve in the Music Library and on the Music Department Website (www.amherst.edu/~music/TheoryPlacement.pdf). Students are also encouraged to discuss placement in music theory with a member of the Music Department.

Limited to 18 students. Senior Lecturer Diehl. 

Students who enroll in this course will likely encounter and be expected to engage in the following intellectual skills, modes of learning, and assessment: group work, individual artistic work, extensive listening, and aural analysis. Students with documented disabilities who will require accommodations in this course should be in consultation with Accessibility Services and reach out to the faculty member as soon as possible to ensure that accommodations can be made in a timely manner.
MUSI 113 - L/D

Section 01
M 01:30 PM - 02:50 PM ARMU 7
W 01:30 PM - 02:50 PM ARMU 7

Offerings

2024-25: Not offered
Other years: Offered in Fall 2007, Fall 2008, Fall 2009, Fall 2010, Fall 2011, Fall 2012, Fall 2013, Fall 2014, Fall 2015, Fall 2016, Fall 2017, Fall 2018, Fall 2019, Fall 2020, Fall 2021