Professional Jazz Combo Course
In the Professional Jazz Combo Course, you play in a jazz combo on paid gigs. Learn ensemble skills, how to take dramatic storytelling solos and how to arrange repertoire and present a set at a professional level. The classroom is at the School as well as on the bandstand. Learn how to apply Bloom’s master storytelling exercises in real time.
Gain professional performance skills:
- Perform with the combo at paid gigs
- Develop world-class solos by using Bloom’s Musical Storytelling Exercises, Bloom’s Laws for Effective Musical Performance, and Bloom’s Ten Commandments of Soloing and Life
- Learn to lead the band for one set
- Learn how to create listener-friendly arrangements with dramatic impact
- Learn how to organize perfect sets of music with a strong musical arc
- Learn to listen and respond at a high level to other musicians
- Increase your musical confidence in the best way–by playing for the public
Course includes:
- (7) two-hour group classes (1/week for 7 weeks), dates TBA
- (3) paid two-hour gigs at a venue (Bloom oversees), dates TBA
- (3) 90-minute debriefings of recorded performances
- Each student gets a copy of the audio recordings from the gigs
- Personalized feedback from David Bloom on your soloing, comping, arranging, and bandleader skills
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Students must have a background in playing jazz repertoire
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Students must be able to improvise solos at an intermediate level, with a minimum of wrong notes
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Chord instruments must be able to comp (play correct chords behind soloists)
If you don’t meet these prerequisites, but are interested in this course, register for the Jazz Combo Course.
Tuition
Tuition for The Professional Combo Course: $1550*
*Minus $300 from gigs–students are paid $100/gig
Total out of pocket: $1250
Some scholarships are available due to financial need as well as exceptional musical skills.
To register, or for more information: Call (773) 860-8300.
