This course develops the student's ability to formulate their musical ideas through study of and application of jazz harmony. It deepens the student's understanding of jazz harmony and the historical, social and cultural contexts which affected its development. In considering past and present musical practice, the student is introduced to issues of  analysis, history, interpretation and cross-cultural understanding. It also develops the student's command of specialist musical language as found in a range of jazz styles, forms and contexts and to develop aural, analytical and writing skills. It deepens the student's understanding of the elements of notation, rhythm, melody, harmony, counterpoint and voice leading, tonalities and structure. These are studied from aural, practical and theoretical perspectives. There is a strong emphasis upon developing the student's aural awareness and skills in applying the harmonic language of jazz within a range of contexts.

On completion of this unit students will be able to demonstrate competence with the use of ‘Functional Harmony' including chord/ scale relationships and Roman Numeral analysis of substitute dominant sevenths and tritone substitutions.

Attendance required at 85% of classes for successful completion

1. Composition Project (50%)
2. Jazz Harmony Exam (50%)

normally 1 hr class time per week

Jazz Harmony for Non-Jazz Musicians 1

It is recommended that students undertaking this course have basic music theory and reading skills.

1) Berklee Music Theory Book: Fundamentals of Harmony by Paul Schmeling HL # 50448062 ISBN 0-87639-066-1.

2) Jazz Composition: Theory and Practice by Ted Pease HL # 50448000 ISBN 0-87639-001-7.

3) Reharmonisation Techniques by Randy Felts HL 350449496 ISBN 0634015850.

There are no technological requirements for this course.