SYLLABUS
Pasadena City College Music Division
Center for the Arts____ Main Office, CA Room 102____ PH: 626-585-7216
COURSE INFORMATION SHEET
MUSC057I - CRN# - 73446 – Mary Durst
JAZZ COMBO
STUDIO JAZZ SINGERS & COMBO BAND
Emphasis: Vocal Jazz Techniques
1.0 UNIT CREDIT (1 unit each semester)
Total of 54 hours lecture and 18 hours laboratory
INSTRUCTOR: Mary R. Durst
OFFICE HOURS: Wednesdays 6:25pm-6:55pm MUSIC LAB Practice Room “C”
CLASS LOCATION: Center For The Arts Building; Room 117
CLASS TIME: Wednesdays 7:00 pm – 10:10 pm
VOICE MAIL & TEXT: (818) 632-4033
EMAIL: mrdurst@pasadena.edu
WEBSITES:
www.canvas.pasadena.edu/login (Assignments, Calendar & Class Documents)
www.pccjazz.com (PCC Jazz Website)
www.pasadena.edu (PCC)
www.facebook.com/groups/PCCJAZZ/ (Facebook Events & info)
www.2azz1.com (Mary Dursts Professional Site)
TEXT BOOK: “Vocal Improvisation” by Michele Weir (Book/CD)
http://www.micheleweir.com/catalog/
www.oldtownmusic.com OLD TOWN MUSIC, 42 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena 626-793-4730
http://www.amazon.com/
PREPARATION
Prerequisite(s): None. Core-Requisite(s): None.
Recommended Preparation: Music 71A, 171B, 9D or vocal group or choral music experience. Piano lessons or can
read music.
Recommended enrollment: Music 101 and 102. Maximum credit 4 units, 1 unit each semester.
GENERAL STATEMENT OF PURPOSE:
Jazz singing is the instrumental approach to the voice. This class is for the vocal & instrumental major that are seriously
interested in a career as a professional performer.
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Total of 54 hours lecture and 18 hours laboratory
Combo will include Drums, Bass & Guitar by audition. Professional piano player is a part of the class. Other
instrumental soloists are welcome to audition.
Theory, history, rehearsal and performance of all jazz styles from New Orleans to avante-garde using lead sheets.
Opportunities for extended improvised soloing as part of a combo band and jazz vocalists, typically a rhythm section
and 2 horns. Required instructional trips. Maximum credit 4 units, 1 unit each semester. Maximum of 4 enrollments
allowed in the Chamber Ensemble Family: Musc 038BCD, 044, 057AEI, 070ABCDE, 082, 133E. Total of 72 hours
laboratory. This course may be scheduled using the “To Be Arranged” (TBA) scheduling format.
Transfer Credit: CSU; UC credit under review.
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Student Learning Outcomes
1. Perform jazz band styles such as swing, Latin, rock, funk, blues, bebop, cool, hard, shuffle,
jazz-waltz, Dixie and ballads.
2. Perform the basic elements of musical language singing or on a musical instrument.
3. Perform successfully in rehearsal and/or in concert representative compositions and
arrangements by the important jazz writers.
4. Exhibit a professional attitude and sense of responsibility to the ensemble.
Student Performance Objectives
1. Perform in the proper style music from the swing, bebop, Latin, cool, funk, and free jazz
periods.
2. Play his respective part in a performance as it relates to rhythmic precision, intonation,
ensemble awareness and balance.
3. Respond to the technical and psychological demands of a solo improvisation assignment.
4. Respond to the moments in a performance that are unstructured and completely
spontaneous.
5. Criticize the performance level of the ensemble and of his own contribution in an objective
way.
6. Demonstrate a knowledge of the growth and development of jazz via the innovative artists
over the years, i.e., Armstrong, Young, Basie,Parker, Coltrane, Coleman, Gillespie.
7. Demonstrate an ability to use "head arrangements," vamps, tag endings, ostinato bass
lines, blues motifs and riffs.
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A strong emphasis on performance.
Classes will include:
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group warm ups, scat & rhythm exercises,
student performances reflecting contrasting styles with the class combo band
listening assignments of legendary jazz singers & musicians
vocal health
microphone technique
music performance skills between singers & instrumentalists & their audience
arranging songs for a band; lead sheets
lectures include; song form; jazz style; grooves; interpretation; improvisation; chord structure and theory;
performing techniques
Students are encouraged to both arrange and compose for a jazz combo, developing repertoire that fits “your voice &
instrument”. Complete finished charts are available in the music lab for men & women vocal ranges, however, students
are encouraged to arrange their own charts and use Finale Notation Software which is also provided in the music lab.
Instrumentalists in the combo band will experience all aspects of accompanying singers as well as the art of great
arrangements.
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DROPPING STUDENTS:
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STATE REGULATIONS REQUIRE THAT THE INSTRUCTOR DROP ALL “NO-SHOW”
Sun., 9/13/2015
Last Day To Add (Online) for 16 Week Courses, all others refer to class roster
Last Day To Drop And Receive A Refund (Online) for 16 Week Courses, all others refer
Mon., 9/14/2015
to class roster
Last Day To Drop Without a “W” (Online) for 16 Week Courses, all others refer to class
Tue., 9/15/2015
roster
STUDENTS AND INACTIVE STUDENTS BEFORE THE COURSE CENSUS DATE WHICH IS THE
SAME AS THE “DROP WITHOUT W” DATE.
 Post-census drops are done after the census date and through the last day to “drop with a W” as shown on
roster
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CLASS ACTIVITIES AND REQUIREMENTS:
FINAL LETTER GRADE ONLY based on the following:
ATTENDANCE:
After 3 unexcused absences, and/or 2 unexcused tardies, your letter grade will fall and you may be dropped from the
class.
ASSIGNMENTS:
Required 3, IN CLASS, memorized performances per semester by singers & instrumentalists. Students produce
proper music charts, approved by the instructor in black binders for the combo band. Students will provide charts for
every member of the band and one extra copy for the instructor in class when performing.
A schedule for in class performances will be created at the first class or the first week of class. Throughout the
semester if you miss your scheduled in class performance, you must be prepared for all upcoming classes when there is
an opportunity, at the instructors discretion, to make up your missed performance when there is time.
Practical instruction, critique & exercises will be presented to the students during and after each performance in class &
written assessment via Canvas by the instructor. All students participate throughout each class via written assessments
& discussions of each other and topics from the instructor. Emphasis of critiques is to encourage one another under
guidelines from the instructor.
Recordings of student performances in class will be uploaded onto “Canvas” each week for students to download &
listen to for self evaluation. Students are required to download & listen to their performances and are responsible in
saving their own files. Files will be deleted at the end of the semester.
Vocal technique exercises in class. Recordings of the exercises will be uploaded onto “Canvas” each week for
students to download. Students are required to continue practicing them throughout the semester.
Required listening assignments & discussions during class will be added to Canvas.
Chart writing and arranging, instructional assignments & lectures will be given & often uploaded to Canvas.
2 Performances OUTSIDE OF CLASS. 1 Off campus and 1 on campus. (See Calendar)
INSTRUMENTALISTS: Required - Attendance and participation affects your grade. You must provide your own
instrument & cables. Drum set & amps are provided. MANDATORY ATTENDANCE of dress rehearsals and
performance dates with proper attire and professional etiquette is required. If any of the rehearsal or performance dates
are missed or you’re tardy (unexcused by the professor), or you didn’t meet the professional etiquette requirements
from the professor, your grade will drop, you may be dropped from the class and you will not perform in those
performances.
In addition to outside shows, each musician are required to prepare - 3 IN CLASS performances per semester. (see
“assignments” above)
WEB: Required - A valid email address provided by each student to the instructor for occasional notices &
information. (addresses will be kept private – BCC “Blind Carbon Copy” ) . Students must be registered for Canvas
for correspondence.
LAB TIME: All students are required to spend a minimum of 18 hours of time in the music lab. This time can be
devoted to practice, chart writing & arranging, and listening to recordings pertaining to the class. (practice rooms,
Internet, computers, Finale notation software & keyboards, microphones, amps, books, music industry magazines
dvd’s, CD’s, are available.)
BEHAVIOR STANDARDS of 57A Students – Instructor: Mary Durst
A professional musicians ability to consistently perform proper behavior, etiquette & self control at rehearsals, studio
work & gigs can determine his or her success in the industry. Each class will provide an opportunity work on
behavioral skills.
Disruptive behavior listed below will lead to:
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First Step: Verbal Warning
Second Step: Temporary Class removal
Third Step: Administrative Class Drop
Disruptive Behavior description:
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Habitual, excessive lateness and/or leaving class early.
Leaving room to use your cell phone. Use of cell phones & lap tops for non-instructional purpose during class
time.
Habitual, excessive talking while class is in session, especially while instruction is being given by the
instructor.
Verbal defiance of your instructors such as interrupting or arguing with the instructor or making defiant
comments out loud or under your breath which classmates can hear.
Professional Behavior (to name a few):
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Early to class and in your seat, focused, ready to GrOw!
Memorize Mary’s Motto: “Early is on time. On time is late!” When you’re early you’re relaxed, you’re
respectful to those who have made preparations, say hello to friends, use the bathroom, get a drink of water, set up
your equipment without the rush and enjoy focusing on “the gig”.
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Listen, nod your head, smile and “suck it up” when the band leader or your instructor is giving constructive
input & needs. Don’t role your eyes or use any body language like that. Walk away and internalize their
words & put it to practice. You won’t always agree but learn to bend. The band sounds the best when we’re
all bendable. Your audience can feel it when you’re not bendable but will celebrate when you all bend
together because that’s when you sound the best!
Walk in every room and say, “There you are!” rather than, “Here I am!”. Be attentive to others around you
such as: Band members; Audience members; Venue hosts; etc…..
Proper hygiene! Always assume you have bad breath so have a “mint” with you always. Shower! Don’t
cover up b.o. with cologne or baby powder.
Check & triple check that all of your music & equipment is prepared and with you always!
Mary Durst
57A, Combo Band & Studio Jazz Singers Calendar
SPRING 2015 PERFORMANCE CALENDAR
Students will gain a wealth of knowledge & information regarding professionalism as a performer.
Off Campus and On Campus Performances:
Some Performances & rehearsals will include only students selected by instructor. Any participating student’s absence
from rehearsals or shows is not tolerated, may result in lowering your grade or you may even be dropped. It is up to the
instructor’s discretion regarding what action will be taken. However, the ABC Show is required for ALL vocal
students and instrumentalists whether you are performing or not. (Please Note: ABC – stands for Arcadia Blues
Club. See below… )
Instrumentalists & participating vocalists are required to attend ALL rehearsals and performances and
tardiness will NOT be tolerated.
DATE TBD
Mandatory Rehearsal
For: West Patio Show
DATE TBD
West Patio Show
DATE TBD
Mandatory Rehearsal
For: West Patio Show
DATE TBD
West Patio Show
Wednesday, Nov 25, 2015
Mandatory Rehearsal:
ENTIRE SHOWS Charts for ABC
Show turned in and books
assembled for the band.
7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
CENTER FOR THE ARTS Room 117
Please Note: Class is from 7:00 pm – 10:10 and all students will attend
the entire class and “scheduled” Group will perform from 8:45 – 10:10
depending on length of rehearsal for West Patio.
11am Load in (at lab equipment door / basement)
12pm Show on West Patio
1pm Tear Down
7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
CENTER FOR THE ARTS Room 117
Please Note: Class is from 7:00 pm – 10:10 and all students will attend
the entire class and “ scheduled ” Group will perform from 8:45 – 10:10
depending on length of rehearsal for Quad.
11am Load in (at lab equipment door / basement)
12pm Show at The Quad (middle of campus)
1pm Tear Down
7:00 pm – 10:10 pm
CENTER FOR THE ARTS Room 117
Everyone’s charts turned in!
Wednesday, Dec 2, 2015
Dress Rehearsal for ABC Show.
(street attire)
Mandatory Rehearsal:
Dress Rehearsal for ABC Show.
(street attire)
7:00 pm – 10:10 pm
CENTER FOR THE ARTS Room 117
Wednesday, Dec 9, 2015
LAST – Mandatory Rehearsal:
Dress Rehearsal for ABC Show.
(street attire)
7:00 pm – 10:10 pm
CENTER FOR THE ARTS Room 117
THURSDAY, Dec 10, 2015
Mandatory Attendance:
ARCADIA BLUES CLUB SHOW
Semi-Formal attire required!
6:00 pm Load in and Sound Check
7:00 pm Doors Open
8:00 pm Show Time
10:15-ish pm Photo Opportunities & Tear Down
All students are required to attend
whether they qualify to perform or
not.
OFF CAMPUS - Arcadia Blues Club
16 E. Huntington Dr. Arcadia CA 91006
GRADING POLICY: Grading: Letter Grade Only
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3 memorized performances in class with proper accompaniment charts produced by each student in black
binders for the band members to follow. Making up an in class missed performance may or may not be
possible depending on time availability within future class periods within the semester, is up to the
instructors discretion and may result in lowering your grade.
 Written assessments of classmates, class vocal tech exercises & overall class participation, behavior and
attitude.
 5 Dress Rehearsals & 2 public performances.
 Lab time and attendance including punctuality. After three unexcused absences, and/or 2 unexcused
tardies, your letter grade will fall and you may be dropped from the class.
 The use of cell phone or laptops, calls & texting during class will lower your grade and you may be
dropped from the class.
(Occasionally your instructor will request texting or lap tops as a tool for class discussion and questions but
ONLY WHEN it is requested by the instructor. Other exception: recording your performance with any of these
devices is permissible.)
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No food or drink permitted in class except water.
Tentative Class Outline
SEPTEMBER 2
FIRST CLASS
Band Auditions
Intro Info
Syllabus presented
 Class Expectations
 Calendar
 Using Canvas
Combo Band Auditions – Drums, Bass, Guitar, Soloist
Horn(s)
8:00pm BREAK & Add Codes
Lecture:
The Jazz Genre. “What songs are considered jazz?”
Performance Traditions (hand out)
Writing Charts – Written Exercise “Misty” (hand out)
Knowing Grooves
Critical Listening in class & Listening Assignment
9:30pm Trip to the Lab
SEPTEMBER 9
Stretches & Strengthening,
Singing Jazz Patterns / Scat Syllables
Seating Chart & Class Behavior Information
HAND OUT: Practice Guide & Jazz Stylings
Text book Page 180-181 & Text book Page 91-92
Grooves
Text book Page 55-56
Tempo and Count Off
Band Cues & Performance Skills
Group A Performances
8:30 pm BREAK
8:45 pm (after break) CRITICAL LISTENING
Group A Performances
Group A Performers:
CHORDS & SCALES Text book Page 32 & 62-66
CHORD PROGRESSIONS Text book Page 47 & 94-99
SEPTEMBER 16
Stretches & Strengthening,
Singing Jazz Patterns / Scat Syllables
5 Note Pattern over chords
Group B Performers:
Group B Performances
8:30 pm BREAK
8:45 pm (after break) Critical Listening in class & Listening
Assignment
Group B Performances
JAZZ TRADITIONS
BLUES C PROGRESSION Text book Page 57 & 88
SEPTEMBER 23
Stretches & Strengthening,
Singing Jazz Patterns / Scat Syllables
Group C
Performers:
Group C Performances
8:30 pm BREAK
8:45 pm (after break) CRITICAL LISTENING
Group Performances
JAZZ STANDARD PROGRESSIONS Text book Page 4
SEPTEMBER 30
Stretches & Strengthening,
Singing Jazz Patterns / Scat Syllables
Group A Performances
8:30 pm BREAK
8:45 pm (after break) CRITICAL LISTENING
Group A Performances
INTROS, ENDINGS, TURN AROUNDS AND VAMPS Text book
Page 53
Group A Performers:
OCTOBER 7
Stretches & Strengthening,
Group B Performers:
Theory Exercise:
Group B Performances
8:30 pm BREAK
8:45 pm (after break) CRITICAL LISTENING
Group C Performances
MELODY VARIATION (IMPROV)
Text book Page 70 & 86 & 88 & 102-105 & 126 & 142
Scat Syllables Pg. 81, 83, 84-85
OCTOBER 14
Stretches & Strengthening,
Singing Jazz Patterns / Scat Syllables
Group C Performers:
Group C Performances
8:30 pm BREAK
8:45 pm (after break) CRITICAL LISTENING
Group C & B (MakeUps) Performances
GUIDE TONES Text book Page 152
OCTOBER 21
Stretches & Strengthening,
Singing Jazz Patterns / Scat Syllables
Group A Performers:
Group A Performances
8:30 pm BREAK
8:45 pm (after break) CRITICAL LISTENING
Group A & B (MakeUps) Performances
RHYTHM & SYLLABLES Text book Page 75 & 136
OCTOBER 28
Stretches & Strengthening,
Singing Jazz Patterns / Scat Syllables
Group B Performances
8:30 pm BREAK
8:45 pm (after break) CRITICAL LISTENING
Group B Performances
EMBELLISHMENTS / STYLING Text book Page 81
Group B Performers:
NOVEMBER 4
Stretches & Strengthening,
Singing Jazz Patterns / Scat Syllables
Group C Performers:
Group C Performances
8:30 pm BREAK
8:45 pm (after break) CRITICAL LISTENING
Group Performances
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS: Text book Page 170-175
NOVEMBER 11
Artistic Process, Tension & Release, Predictability & Surprise,
Intensity, Phrasing, Solo Contour, Dry for ideas
ALL Groups Performances (from any group can perform)
GROUPS A,B,C,
Stretches, Singing the changes
Performance Skill “TIPS”!
Musical Elements; Dynamics, Phrasing, Mixing-Sensitivity
Performance Tech: Set-up, Microphone Skills, Eye Contact,
Band & Cues, Audience & Club Staff & Band Etiquette;
Gear; Physical & Mental Health
NOVEMBER 18
ALL Groups Performances (from any group can perform)
GROUPS A,B,C,
Stretches, Singing the changes
Turn in “Field Trip” Forms
Performance Skill “TIPS”!
Musical Elements; Dynamics, Phrasing, Mixing-Sensitivity
Performance Tech: Set-up, Microphone Skills, Eye Contact,
Band & Cues, Audience & Club Staff & Band Etiquette;
Gear; Physical & Mental Health
NOVEMBER 25
MANDATORY DRESS REHEARSAL – (PREP for Arcadia
Blues Club)
DRESS
REHEARSAL
Rehearsing 1st Half of Show
DECEMBER 2
HAPPY THANKSGIVING! - Thankful; “full of thanks”
MANDATORY DRESS REHEARSAL – (PREP for Arcadia
Blues Club)
Rehearsing 2nd Half of Show
DRESS
REHEARSAL
DECEMBER 9
MANDATORY DRESS REHEARSAL – (PREP for Arcadia
Blues Club)
Rehearsing ENTIRE Show
DECEMBER 10
THURSDAY
THURSDAY! “GIG”
Final Performance…….
OFF CAMPUS - Arcadia Blues Club
16 E. Huntington Dr. Arcadia CA 91006
DECEMBER 16
LAST
DRESS
REHEARSAL
Arcadia Blues Club
(off campus, See
Canvas for info)
Final Class Wrap Up & Celebration
“Music Biz Discussion”
While I will try diligently to follow this schedule, I reserve the right to amend this schedule at anytime during the
course and students are responsible for changes announced during class.