New York Jazz Academy® Electives include jazz foundations (including theory, notation, ear-training, and application), bebop line building, and more. These courses are all worthwhile complements to core ensemble and performance classes. We also have many more electives available via NYJA Online.
Jazz Foundations
Developed by NYJA® founder Javier Arau (a 2024 Grammy®-nominee for the Grammy® Educator award), Jazz Foundations delves into the roots of jazz harmony, improvisation, theory, notation, and its many applications. It is highly recommended for anyone wanting to build a strong foundation in jazz music. This course is cumulative and will reference material being taught in other classes at New York Jazz Academy®.
Learn how to connect your ear with what you see and feel! Jazz Notation and Ear-Training is particularly helpful for vocalists, pianists, and guitarists. It can help anyone who wants to learn effective methods of reading and understanding jazz notation, rhythm, melody, and harmony.
Bebop Line Building is open to intermediate-advanced level instrumentalists who are looking to improve their skills related to playing jazz lines. This is a great way to learn the skills necessary to play jazz effectively while getting a chance to play with other musicians.
Topics covered in Bebop Line Building include:
Methods for playing through chord changes
Bebop scale exercises and patterns
Common bebop phrases and basic vocabulary
Scale and arpeggio knowledge
Diatonic Patterns and exercises
Improvising with Pentatonics and triads
Applying improv devices to common chords
Solo development and phrasing
Studying jazz masters and their styles through transcription
Are you looking for even more options? Check out our Online Programs, including tuition-free classes in music notation basics and jazz history, and other theory and improv, comp and arranging classes.
Location: Online
Day/Time: At Your Own Pace
Tuition: Varies per course
Want to register? Need more info? Visit NYJA Online
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