jazz
Jazz at CPSM offers students a comprehensive approach to learning the jazz repertoire. Designed to meet the needs of both beginning and experienced jazz performers, the program presents students with a systematic presentation of numerous styles – from basic blues, bebop, and swing to advanced modern forms of jazz composition, including funk, jazz-rock and modern big band. Students perform in a concert at the end of each semester.
The program focuses on theory, developing improvisational skills, sight-reading, composition, arranging and the art of performance.
The jazz program is offered to students ages 12 and up. Classes and private lessons meet weekly on Saturday afternoons.
- private 30-, 45-, or 60-minute weekly lesson
- theory class
- combos
- performance forum
theory
combos
Students are placed in combos by the jazz coordinator based on experience and level of performance ability.
Combos focus on learning classic jazz repertoire as well as providing a forum for the development and exploration of individual improvisation, arranging and composition.
Students will study the music of past jazz masters including Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Thelonious Monk as well as more modern jazz styles including funk, jazz-rock, and free playing.
performance forum
The weekly performance forum at CPSM truly makes the program unique. Each week students get a chance to perform for one another in a casual setting in pre-formed combos or impromptu configurations.
Constructive criticism is offered by the faculty and fellow students after each performance. In addition, every week students get a chance to hear and play with the faculty as well as with guest artists.
private lessons
Private lessons are one of the most important aspects of studying at CPSM. Our distinguished faculty caters to each individual student’s needs and abilities. Our faculty is comprised of working professional musicians in the NYC jazz community, who brings their unique experiences and teaching methods to the lesson.
PIANO | STRING | WIND | GUITAR | PERCUSSION | VOICE
JAZZ | CHAMBER MUSIC | MUSICIANSHIP | MUSIC THEATER
