Performance, composition, education. Everything you need in one place!

Performance, composition, education. Everything you need in one place!



Performance, composition, education. Everything you need in one place!













Jazz Workshops

If you have ever wanted to learn how to play jazz, read on. CAJ runs weekly jazz workshops in the north-east, now based at the Dryden Centre in Gateshead. Jazz lessons cover all levels from the jazz beginner to the advanced player. Dedicated jazz teachers offer a comprehensive jazz program which will enable you to learn technique, theory and most importantly how to create your own jazz solos. Interested? Consult the table below to decide which jazz class suits you best and then click on information for full details of venue, fees, dates, etc.


Beginner Jazz Class

This class will cover playing jazz in a fun and accessible way. You will learn basic jazz theory by playing easy jazz repertoire in an ensemble setting suited to your level. This will include jamming with other people, learning tunes, triads and an introduction to the jazz solo. All you need to know is where most of the notes are on your instrument.
Fear will not be an issue in this supportive jazz class! At the end of this jazz course you will have developed an understanding of the skills required to play jazz.




Advanced Jazz Class


At this level you will begin playing jazz in  a more developed way, focussing on phrasing, rhythm, communication and learning to create your own licks. You will learn how to play jazz solos which are mature and consistent. This is where you begin teaching jazz to yourself, becoming an independent player with your own original ideas.
To join this class you need to have a basic grasp of scales and arpeggios and experience of playing with other musicians.
During this jazz course, understanding jazz will become easier and all the mysteries and secrets will be revealed!
   Intermediate Jazz Class

In this class you will learn scales and harmony, expand your jazz repertoire and learn those cool jazz notes whilst extending your jamming and soloing experience. You will learn to analyse and develop an understanding of chord progressions leaving basic jazz behind. 
At this level you will need to know where all twelve notes are on your instrument, be able to read chord symbols and already have some experience of playing tunes and soloing. Learning jazz will be a pleasure in this 

creat
ive environment.
Next Level Jazz
Workshop

This new class will be led by Claude Werner and participants should be proficient jazz players who want to move to the next level of improvisation (minimum age 16). Topics which will be covered include:
  • Storytelling: developing ideas in a meaningful way

  • Ensemble interaction: between rhythm section and soloist

  • Using the tune as a vehicle for improvisation

Note: these classes are on Tuesdays, 8pm to 9.30pm. See information page below.



Information:

                          View Online                                               Printable Document