MA Jazz

Course Overview

Student playing double bass

Two Year Programme

Building on the success of the RWCMD Jazz Department, a dedicated MA Jazz programme has been devised which features a diversity of performance opportunities combined with high-level professional training that relates to the current industry. The two year programme, intended for advanced performers, has an integrated approach in which you will develop a mature understanding of jazz language, a reflective, critical awareness and a sense of individuality.

Our specialist course offer high quality and distinctive training. Principal study options include bass, drums, flute, guitar, piano, saxophone, trombone, trumpet, voice and other instruments by negotiation.

Our aim is to equip you with performance, improvisational and compositional skills across a range of styles within the jazz idiom, together with an informed perspective on generating and maintaining a successful career in the professional world.

You will receive tuition from a team of internationally celebrated performers and composers. In one-to-one lessons you will concentrate on the development of a secure technique. You will explore areas appropriate to your instrument/voice and your role within an ensemble, providing a solid basis for interpretation and improvisation. You will experience a range of approaches offered by a specifically tailored group of tutors in order to promote individuality and creativity.

Performance-based group classes will focus on both standard and contemporary repertoire, and small and large ensembles. There is as great an opportunity to experience working in a duo, trio or quartet as there is in big band, jazz ensembles or jazz choir. You will be encouraged to contextualise your performance in classes which will assist your development of the jazz language. History, harmony and aural skills (including transcription) are centred on your development as a performer, while professional diversity is encouraged through composition, arrangement, band-leadership and teaching skills.

The programmes offer an impressive range of performance platforms including interactive schools workshops, jam sessions, jazz club gigs, masterclasses, touring programmes and appearances at major festivals. As a member of this vibrant department, you will experience a genuine sense of community and be inspired by the international artists involved in our programme of concerts, festival and education events.

There are a limited number of places available on the MA Jazz programme starting in September 2010. Contact the Admissions Team directly Tel: 029 2039 1361 Email: admissions@rwcmd.ac.uk for further information.