HUNTER COLLEGE JAZZ VOCAL WORKSHOP
MUSPF 251.00; MUS 716
Professor Owens
OBJECTIVE: The objective of the Jazz Vocal Workshop is to provide students with performance training
within the Jazz idiom. Elements of style and traditional performance practice will be explored through
exercises and solo/ensemble performances. Topics to be addressed include: Mechanics of Healthy
Singing, Reading Charts/Understanding the Map, Identifying Musical Styles, Improvisational Techniques,
and Pre-performance Preparation.
PREREQUISITES: Private Vocal Instruction or Voice I. Open to Instrumentalists.
Instructor’s permission/Audition required.
NOTE: Students are encouraged to register for ensembles prior to the required audition. After the
audition, which is held during the first week of the semester, students will need to adjust their class
schedules accordingly. (Students who do not pass the audition will be asked to drop the course.)
GRADES: Grades will be based on preparation, participation, and attendance. The grading breakdown is
as follows:
Attendance/Punctuality: 20%
Class Preparation/Participation: 80%
REQUIREMENTS: You will be responsible for learning assigned pieces. Any additional repertoire must be
approved by the instructor. You must be prepared to present repertoire at every session. Failure to do
so will severely reduce your final grade.
*Please Note: Solo performance in class does not guarantee a solo slot in concerts. Auditions will
be held prior to each concert. Only those students who are consistent in their preparation and
demonstrate a mastery of their repertoire will be considered for featured slots.
PERFORMANCES: There will be two Crossover Recitals (during Dean’s Hours) and one formal Lang Hall
Concert (evening). Attendance at all performances is mandatory.
ATTIRE: All performances require black dress attire. For the men: black jacket and or vest, shirt and tie
for afternoon recitals; tuxedos or black equivalent with white shirt and black bow tie (collarless formal
shirts are also acceptable) for formal Lang Hall concerts. Black shoes and socks are the norm for both
venues. For the women: (loosely fitting) dress slacks, dresses or skirts (to the knee) and tops for the
afternoon recitals; dress black (hemlines below the calf) with black shoes (no open toes), black or fleshtoned stockings, tasteful make-up and jewelry for the Lang Hall.
*ABSOLUTELY NO HATS, SUNGLASSES, VISIBLE PIERCED BODY PARTS, SNEAKERS, BOOTS, PLATFORM
SHOES, SEE-THROUGH BLOUSES, MIDRIFF-BARING TOPS, HALTERS, JEANS, SPANDEX, OR OTHER TIGHT
CLOTHING IS ALLOWED.
Appropriate attire is part of the required preparation for any performance. Grade points will be
deducted and students may be removed from the performance roster for inappropriate dress. Jazz is
America’s indigenous classical music. Show that you respect it and yourself by maintaining a polished,
professional demeanor at all times.
OFFICE HOURS: Students may contact Professor Owens by E-mail: Cillajazz@hotmail.com, or by calling
the Music Department Office (Room 416 North) at (212) 772-5020 and leaving a message.