Many students who enroll in jazz band use it as an opportunity to learn a new instrument.
Standard jazz instrumentation calls for two alto saxes, one tenor sax and one baritone sax; four trumpets; three-four trombones; electric guitar; electric or upright bass; piano; and drum set. However, thanks to a releatively new jazz method book that I implement, almost any instrument can play jazz music.
An 8th grade student enrolled in jazz band MUST also be enrolled in Advanced Band. Advanced band provides the necessary music fundamentals that carry over into the jazz classroom.
For the most part, you will be expected to provide your own instrument for this class. The school does have a tenor sax and baritone sax that can be used for this class, and a drum set.
The method book required for this class is called "Standard of Excellence Jazz Ensemble Method, Book 1," by Dean Sorenson & Bruce Pearson. Please make sure you get the correct book for YOUR instrument. This book is available at Music Mart (3301 Carlisle NE) and at Baum's Music (2908 Eubank NE and 3301 Southern Blvd. Ste 403 in Rio Rancho).
