Jazz Ensemble II Syllabus
Course Title: Jazz Ensemble
Grade Levels: 9-12
Prerequisites: Audition
Description: In this course, students will be exposed to classic big band repertoire, chord/scale
theory and improvisation. Students will perform throughout the year in various concerts and
festivals.
Dr. Reynolds’ contact information (email preferred)
email: jreynolds@sandi.net
Office:(619) 470-0555 (x228)
Cell: (619) 709-1847
Objectives:
1. Students will perform big band repertoire in the appropriate idiomatic style.
2. Students will learn the history of big band repertoire including its composers, bandleaders
and musicians.
3. Students will learn to improvise over the chord progressions in the tunes the band will
perform.
4. Students will learn relevant chord/scale theory in order to assist them in becoming more
proficient improvisers and well-rounded musicians.
5. Students will perform proficiencies at the appropriate grade level.
Music Students will become…
1. Lifelong learners who develop successful learning habits.
Standard I: Artistic Perception
Processing, analyzing and responding to sensory information through the language and skills
unique to the arts.
Assessment: Students can read and write music.
2. Creative, critical thinkers who have an understanding of course content and mastery of
artistic skills.
Standard II: Creative Expression
Creating, performing and participating in the arts.
Assessment: Students perform varied repertoire with expression and technical accuracy.
3. Responsible and respectful community members who respect other cultures.
Standard III: Historical and Cultural Content
Understanding historical contributions and cultural dimensions of the arts.
Assessment: Students will learn to perform and enjoy music of different cultures.
4. Effective communicators who listen actively.
Standard IV: Aesthetic Valuing
Responding to, analyzing and making judgments about works in the arts.
Assessment: Students will make critical judgments about musical performances.
5. Healthy individuals who set long-term career and personal goals.
Standard V: Connections, Relations and Applications
Connecting and applying what is learned in each art form to learning in other art forms, subject
areas and careers.
Assessment: Students will transfer knowledge and skills to other disciplines.
Activities:
1. Rehearsing and performing tunes in the big band repertoire
2. In-class assignments, theory quizzes and performance tests
3. Guided listening, research, recording and class discussion
4. Transcription projects
Equipment Required:
 Instruments: Students are strongly encouraged whenever possible to purchase or rent an
instrument for the school year. If needed, we can provide an instrument, but our
inventory is very limited.
 Music and theory worksheets will be provided by the teacher.
 Music binder will be provided by the teacher.
 Sheet music protectors will be provided by the teacher.
 Sheet music - students will be given one (1) copy of each piece of music.
***Students will be charged 50 cents per page if music copies are lost and
have to be replaced. Parents will be notified of lost music. Your grade will be
impacted for lost music.
Grading Policy: Academic grades will be affected by performance in five areas.
In class participation (25 pts. X 18 weeks)
450 points
Music/Pencil Check (25 pts. X 18 weeks)
450 points
Music portfolio
100 points
Transcription Project*
Varies
Proficiencies*
Varies
*Proficiency points vary depending on grade level.
At the end of each 6 weeks: 100%-91% of total points = A, 90-81% of total points = B
80-71% of total points = C, 70-61% of total points=D, 60% and below= F
In-class participation points awarded 5 points per class period.
Be Punctual +1
(Be in seat when bell rings)
Be Prepared +1
(Bring portfolio, pencil and other materials)
Be Positive +1
(Maintain a positive attitude)
Be Persistent +1
(Stay on task, keep focused, don’t give up right away)
Be Perceptive +1
(Listen to the teacher, other students and your own sound)
Citizenship grade is derived from in-classroom participation, absences and tardies.
End-of-the-Year Performance Exams (200 points)
Proficiency
Bebop Major*
Bebop Dorian*
Bebop Mixolydian*
Jazz Melodic Minor*
Point Value
50
50
50
50
*4 keys will be chosen from the circle of Fourths
Grading Scale for Proficiency Exams
Freshman
Score
Grade
55
A
53
B+
51
B
49
B47
C+
45
C
43
C41
D+
39
D
37
D35
F
Sophomores
Score
Grade
65
A
63
B+
61
B
59
B57
C+
55
C
53
C51
D+
49
D
47
D45
F
Juniors
Score
Grade
75
A
73
B+
71
B
69
B67
C+
65
C
63
C61
D+
59
D
57
D55
F
Seniors
Score
Grade
85
A
83
B+
81
B
79
B77
C+
75
C
73
C71
D+
69
D
67
D65
F
Grading Rubric for Proficiency Exams (x10 for scores of 50)
5
4
3
2
1


Individual performance in which no mistakes occur in that specific category and
recovery is not necessary
The musician demonstrates a thorough knowledge of the material with no lapses

Practice/memorization is always evident

Individual performance in which minor mistakes occur in that specific category and
recovery is immediate

The musician demonstrates a strong knowledge of the material with only occasional
lapses

Practice/memorization is usually evident

Individual performance in which some mistakes occur in that specific category and
recovery happens inconsistently

The musician demonstrates some knowledge of the material with frequent lapses

Practice/memorization is only sometimes evident

Individual performance in which many mistakes occur in that specific category and
recovery does not happen

The musician demonstrates no knowledge of the material

Practice/memorization is not evident

Student is not performing at grade level proficiency
End-of-the-Year Proficiencies
At the end of the school year, students will perform grade-level proficiencies as part of their final
grade. Students are strongly encouraged to perform the scales for Dr. Reynolds throughout the
year, checking them off one by one, rather than waiting until the end of the year.
Freshmen
One octave Bebop Major, Bebop Dorian, Bebop Mixolydian – 6 keys
1-chorus transcription
Sophomores
One octave Bebop Major, Bebop Dorian, Bebop Mixolydian – all keys
One octave Blues – 6 keys
2-chorus transcription
Juniors
Two octave Bebop Major, Bebop Dorian, Bebop Mixolydian – all keys
Two octave Blues – 12 keys
Jazz Melodic Minor – 6 keys
3-chorus transcription
Seniors
Two octave Bebop Major, Bebop Dorian, Bebop Mixolydian – all keys
Two octave Blues – all keys
Jazz Melodic Minor – all keys
4-chorus transcription
Proficiency Procedures
At each proficiency test, you will be expected to play the assigned scales in all keys. When
playing the scales, they must be played at a steady tempo. The minimum required tempo is ♩
=88. Drummers will be expected to perform the scales on piano. One hand only. No
exceptions.
Transcription requirements
Each student will perform a transcription at the proficiency exam. You are required to pick a
transcription on your own instrument. You may use a written copy if needed at the exam. You
will be asked to provide an Mp3 of the solo 2 weeks in advance, which you will perform.
Additionally, students must get the transcription approved by week 8 of the 1st semester. You
will perform the solo along with the original recording in real time. There are thousands of
transcriptions available online. Please direct any questions you have regarding transcriptions to
Dr. Reynolds.
Attendance: Attendance will be taken daily at the beginning of class. All absences and tardies
are recorded and affect the in-class participation portion of your grade. Students are expected to
make up missed class work and tests. Ask the teacher or another student for help.
PARTICIPATION IN ALL PERFORMANCES IS MANDATORY. STUDENTS THAT
MISS A SCHEDULED PERFORMANCE WILL AUTOMATICALLY FAIL THE
COURSE. A note from parent/guardian excusing participation in a performance must be turned
in to the teacher three weeks before the concert and must include a daytime phone number for
verification. Exceptions to missed concerts may include illness (with a written doctor’s or
parent’s note) or lack of transportation to the event (requiring parents note and teacher/parent
conference). If the student knows ahead of time that there is an issue with transportation, the
student is to notify Dr. Reynolds immediately so that alternative transit can be provided.
Classroom rules:
1. Respect yourself, others, the teachers, instruments and all equipment.
2. Follow directions quickly and quietly.
3. Actively and positively participate in class.
4. Allow other students to learn at their own pace.
5. Always bring your music portfolio, instrument and a pencil to class.
6. Stay in your seat unless given permission to leave.
7. Raise your hand if you have a comment, question or need help.
School Rules: No hats or headwear. Cell phones must be turned off and out of sight.
No electronics without permission. Cell phones/Mp3 players will be taken and the student’s
parent/guardian will need to come to the school to pick them up from Dr. Reynolds. No food or
drink in class at ANY time. Water is OK. If a student is caught eating in class, he/she will be
subject to campus beautification after school.
Discipline Policy: The following will be followed for students who do not obey the
classroom rules.
1. A verbal warning will be given.
2. A second verbal warning along with a phone call to parent/guardian will be made.
3. A referral to the counselor’s office will be given as well as campus beautification after
school.
4. Any physical or verbal assault against another student or teacher will result in an
immediate referral to the principal and may result in suspension and/or expulsion.
Instrument Loans
All students are encouraged to buy or rent their own instrument. Stores close to SCPA offer
rent-to-own programs for less than $20 per month. Students who cannot rent or purchase their
own instrument will be provided an instrument by CCMS (Community Council for Music in the
Schools). Students will be issued a form that the student and his/her parents will sign. CCMS
instruments are not to be taken home until the form and fee have been returned with
proper signatures.
Private Lessons
Although students will learn a great deal from the music faculty at SCPA, there is no substitute
for private lessons. Top students of all ensembles at SCPA take private lessons. All students are
encouraged to seek out a private teacher in their area for weekly or bi-monthly lessons. Group
lessons are often available to help defer some of the cost.
Jazz Ensemble I Calendar (dates may be added)
November 7
March 12
June 10
June 11
Fall concert
Spring Concert
Motown Concert
Motown Concert
Note for Parents Regarding SmartMusic
We will be using SmartMusic extensively this year and the assignments will make up a
significant part of your child's grade. Parents are encouraged to purchase a subscription for use
at home ($40/year) so that the child can have unlimited access for practice. We have several
computers at SCPA that students can use during class, lunch and after school. Parents are
encouraged to login to the SmartMusic portal online to check the child's progress for current and
futures assignments. More information can be found here:
http://www.smartmusic.com/parents/
Student Column
Parent/Guardian Column
___ I understand the objectives and activities
of the class.
___ I understand the objectives and activities
of the class.
___ I understand the materials and grading
policy
___ I will supply my child with the required
materials and understand how my child will
be graded.
___I understand the attendance policy and
expectations.
___I understand the attendance policy and
expectations.
___I understand and will follow the class
rules
___I understand the class rules my child will
need to follow.
___I agree to ask for help if I don’t
understand what I am learning in class.
___I understand my child should ask for help
if he/she does not understand what he/she is
learning in class.
Student’s Signature _______________________________________
Date ___________________________
Parent’s Signature ________________________________________
Date ___________________________
Student’s Name (print clearly) ____________________________________
Parent’s Name (Print clearly) _____________________________________
Student’s Cell phone _______________________________
Parent’s Cell phone ________________________________
Student’s Email address ___________________________________
Parent’s Email address ____________________________________