History informs creativity. Originality is defined by its relationship to that which has come before. Our understanding of the past brings relevance to what we hear and create today. In this ensemble we experientially explore the rhythmic, melodic, and harmonic approaches of Charlie Parker and his worthy constituents. Through listening, aural learning, and performance of the music of this period, students will discover, learn, articulate, and incorporate the defining characteristics of this period of jazz into their own style and voice. Music studied will be determined during the semester. All music will be learned and memorized by ear from selected recordings. Students are encouraged to compose a composition using the approach and characteristics of this period. Students will be selected through an audition process and are expected to have the assigned material memorized before each class.