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Jazz Bands

The jazz program provides a variety of opportunities for musicians to develop skills in the jazz idiom. Students with no previous experience in this style are welcome to explore what this music has to offer. The program’s faculty includes some of Australia’s leading professional jazz artists. Students in the jazz program will have the opportunity to learn improvisation and also to play the vast repertoire that falls under this genre, including Latin Jazz, Swing, Bebop, and Funk.

Students who find themselves particularly keen on the jazz styles have the opportunity to extend themselves and develop advanced skills that enable them to confidently audition for university jazz programs. Many former students of the Wollongong Conservatorium have completed University degrees in jazz studies and have gone on to become professional jazz artists all over the world.

There is no pre-set expectation for students who participate in the jazz program. If you are doing it to extend your experiences or to have some fun, you are absolutely welcome. There are opportunities for all musicians of any age on any instrument including voice.

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Introduction to Jazz Improvisation

DAY & TIME

TBC

AGE GROUP

Ages 11+

FEE

$212 per 9 week term

LEADER

TBA

For any instrumentalists or vocalists wanting to learn basic jazz and jazz improvisation concepts.

This is a hands-on class where students of all levels will ‘have a go’ at improvising and learning jazz songs. Students must have at least one year of experience on their instrument and be able to play a concert Bb Major scale and a willingness to learn new notes, ideas and concepts. This is an ideal opportunity for pianists, guitarists, and drummers to play in a jazz ensemble.

No prior jazz experience is necessary. Drummers are not required to be able to read music. Guitarists must be able to read tablature and play some chords.

Up to 20 people may enrol in this class.

Jazz Band

DAY & TIME

Tuesday 4.00pm-5.00pm

AGE GROUP

Ages 10+

FEE

$212 per 9 week term

LEADER

TBA

A band that is suitable for young musicians ranging in age from approximately 12 though to early teens and who have had at least two years of experience on their instrument.

This band is an opportunity for students to learn and play various jazz styles, and for guitarist, pianists, and drummers who may not have had previous experience in a band to learn ensemble skills.

This band also has fun playing at various events and music festivals.

Approximate size of the band is 15-25 students. Entry by audition or recommendation.

Jazz Ensemble

DAY & TIME

Wednesday 5.00pm-6.30pm

AGE GROUP

Ages 12+

FEE

$212 per 9 week term

LEADER

TBA

In this band you will get to play with other keen musicians who are aged in their early to late teens. You’ll have fun making music and performing at various events including music festivals.

For more experienced students to work on advanced ensemble skills, playing challenging jazz literature with a focus on Latin, swing, bebop, and modern jazz styles, this is a place where many students form a life-long passion for this style of music.

In this jazz band you will hone your ensemble skills and learn how to swing! In the immortal words of Duke Ellington, “It don’t mean a thing, if it ain’t got that swing!”.

Approximate size is from 15-25 players. Entry by audition or recommendation.

Conservatorium Jazz Orchestra

DAY & TIME

Wednesday 7.00pm-9.00pm

AGE GROUP

Ages 13+

FEE

$212 per 9 week term

LEADER

TBA

If you’ve really got the bug for playing challenging music with other great musicians, this might be the band for you. The Conservatorium Jazz Orchestra is the flagship band of WollCon’s Jazz Program and where some of Australia’s professional jazz musicians began.

The band has toured China, Japan, and America, and has performed regularly at Jazz Festivals and other concerts.

In this band you will challenge yourself while having a wonderful time playing great music with others.

The age range is from teens to adults, and the approximate size is from 12-25 people.

Entry is by instructor approval or audition.

Small Group Jazz Combos

For students who are interested in working in small groups and developing skills in improvisation and challenging jazz literature in a fun and supportive setting under the guidance of a professional jazz musician.  Students interested in this option will need to seek advice from Jazz Program staff so that they are placed in the appropriate group of similar skill level.  There may be limited availability in these ensembles as they are carefully curated.

Small Group Vocal Jazz Combo (Hummingbirds)

For really small, close harmony group singing check out Jazz Vocal Combo in our Small Group Lessons.

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