This class uses the skill sets of focus, memorization, retention, ear training, and creativity to study and explore the improvisation of melody through the common movements encountered in traditional tonal harmony. It is deeply rooted in the approach of pianist Barry Harris and traverses through the exploration of scales and common movements, and prioritizes cadential improvisation using different harmonic choices. Students learn the common choices available to them and are challenged to construct and improvise melodies which apply these devices effectively. Material covered includes dominant seventh scales, triads, chords, tri-tone relationships, diminished chords (and their corresponding dominant seventh chords) whole tone scales, augmented chords, and chromatisms. Emphasis is on the practical application of these concepts in a melodic, personal, and creative fashion to common harmonic movements encountered in the great American Songbook and jazz compositions from the 30’s through the 50’s. Students are required to bring their instruments to class, participate, and engage in creative practice outside of class. This class is built and expands upon the concepts taught in JCMF Improv 2 and has a pre-req of JCMF level 3.

This class uses the skill sets of focus, memorization, retention, ear training, and creativity to study and explore the improvisation of melody through the common movements encountered in traditional tonal harmony. It is deeply rooted in the approach of pianist Barry Harris and traverses through the exploration of scales and common movements, and prioritizes cadential improvisation using different harmonic choices. Students learn the common choices available to them and are challenged to construct and improvise melodies which apply these devices effectively. Material covered includes dominant seventh scales, triads, chords, tri-tone relationships, diminished chords (and their corresponding dominant seventh chords) whole tone scales, augmented chords, and chromatisms. Emphasis is on the practical application of these concepts in a melodic, personal, and creative fashion to common harmonic movements encountered in the great American Songbook and jazz compositions from the 30’s through the 50’s. Students are required to bring their instruments to class, participate, and engage in creative practice outside of class. This class is built and expands upon the concepts taught in JCMF Improv 2 and has a pre-req of JCMF level 3.